<p>In a recent announcement on Tuesday, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) revealed that 88 per cent of the country's highest denomination 2000-rupee currency notes, amounting to 3.14 trillion rupees ($38.17 billion), have been returned to the central bank since their withdrawal from circulation. The decision to withdraw these high-value notes was made in May, allowing for exchange or deposit until September 30.</p>

<p>The introduction of the 2000-rupee denominated notes in 2016 aimed to replenish India's economy after the government's unexpected demonetization move, which scrapped high-value banknotes. However, the RBI has consistently expressed its desire to reduce high-value notes in circulation and halted the printing of 2000-rupee notes over the past four years.</p>

<p><strong>RBI's Clean Note Policy</strong></p>

<p>As of July 31, 2023, the total value of 2000-rupee notes in circulation stands at 420 billion rupees. This is a significant decline from 3.62 trillion rupees on March 31, 2023, marking the end of the last fiscal year. During this period, the central bank stated that 87 per cent of the banknotes received by lenders were in the form of deposits, while the remaining 13 per cent were exchanged for other denominations.</p>

<p>To facilitate a smooth transition, the RBI urged the public to utilize the next two months to deposit and/or exchange any remaining 2000-rupee banknotes they hold to avoid a last-minute rush before the September 30 deadline. The central bank's 'Clean Note Policy' motivated the withdrawal of the 2000-rupee banknotes, citing their limited use in transactions. The RBI reassured the public that an ample stock of banknotes in other denominations remains available to meet their currency requirements.</p>

<p>Notably, the total value of 2000-rupee banknotes in circulation, which stood at 3.62 lakh crore rupees on March 31, 2023, declined to 3.56 lakh crore rupees by May 19, 2023.</p>

<p>As the withdrawal deadline approaches, the RBI's call to the public to take timely action will ensure a smooth and orderly process. Individuals and businesses are encouraged to deposit or exchange their 2000-rupee banknotes well before September 30, 2023, to avoid any potential inconvenience.</p>

<p><em>( With Inputs from Agencies)</em></p>


In a recent announcement on Tuesday, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) revealed that 88 per cent of the country's highest denomination 2000-rupee currency notes, amounting to 3.

In a recent announcement on Tuesday, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) revealed that 88 per cent of the country's highest denomination 2000-rupee currency notes, amounting to 3.14 trillion rupees ($38.17 billion), have been returned to the central bank since their withdrawal from circulation. The decision to withdraw these high-value notes was made in May, allowing for exchange or deposit until September 30. The introduction of the 2000-rupee denominated notes in 2016 aimed to replenish India's economy after the government's unexpected demonetization move, which scrapped high-value banknotes. However, the RBI has consistently expressed its desire to reduce high-value notes in circulation and halted the printing of 2000-rupee notes over the past four years. RBI's Clean Note Policy As of July 31, 2023, the total value of 2000-rupee notes in circulation stands at 420 billion rupees. This is a significant decline from 3.62 trillion rupees on March 31, 2023, marking the end of the last fiscal year. During this period, the central bank stated that 87 per cent of the banknotes received by lenders were in the form of deposits, while the remaining 13 per cent were exchanged for other denominations. To facilitate a smooth transition, the RBI urged the public to utilize the next two months to deposit and/or exchange any remaining 2000-rupee banknotes they hold to avoid a last-minute rush before the September 30 deadline. The central bank's 'Clean Note Policy' motivated the withdrawal of the 2000-rupee banknotes, citing their limited use in transactions. The RBI reassured the public that an ample stock of banknotes in other denominations remains available to meet their currency requirements. Notably, the total value of 2000-rupee banknotes in circulation, which stood at 3.62 lakh crore rupees on March 31, 2023, declined to 3.56 lakh crore rupees by May 19, 2023. As the withdrawal deadline approaches, the RBI's call to the public to take timely action will ensure a smooth and orderly process. Individuals and businesses are encouraged to deposit or exchange their 2000-rupee banknotes well before September 30, 2023, to avoid any potential inconvenience. ( With Inputs from Agencies)

RBI's currency cleanup: 2000-rupee notes vanish as 88% of currency returned since May

<p>A comprehensive performance helped India thrash West Indies by 200 runs in the final One Day Internationals at Brian Lara Stadium in Trinidad and Tobago on Wednesday (August 2).</p>

<p>After a poor show in the second ODI, India bounced back strong in the third and posted a massive 351 score.</p>

<p>While chasing the target, the Caribbean bundled out for a paltry 151, handing India the series win.</p>

<p>Among the pick of bowlers from the blue brigade were Mukesh Kumar and Shardul Thakur. While Mukesh provided the early breakthrough and scalped three wickets, Shardul earned four crucial wickets to become the leading wicket-taker in the final match.</p>

<p>After West Indies won the toss and asked India to bat first, openers Shubhman Gill and Ishan Kishan went into overdrive and started scoring at almost 7 per over in the opening phase of the play.</p>

<p>The aggressive gameplay displayed by the left-right duo enabled India to reach 100 within 15 overs.</p>

<p>Both put on a 143-run stand inside 20 overs before Yannic Cariah ended Ishan’s innings at 77.</p>

<p>Soon, No. 3 batter Ruturaj Gaikwad followed suit as he got out cheaply for 8.</p>

<p>But the run rate kept ticking for India as Sanju Samson and well-settled Gill went on to score freely.</p>

<p>Samson’s intent was pretty much clear as he smacked a six in the second ball he faced. The aggressive knock saw the Kerala batter scoring a well-deserved half-century.</p>

<p>Though India’s pacy innings got stumbled due to the departures of Samson and Gill, stand-in skipper Hardik Pandya ensured that his side finishes on a high.</p>

<p>The Baroda all-rounder was at his ruthless best as he slammed 70 in 52 balls taking India beyond the 350-run mark.</p>

<p>West Indies, on the other hand, started off on the wrong foot handing out wickets cheaply. Within seven overs, the home side was reduced to 17/3.</p>

<p>Except for Alick Athanaze’s 32 and bowler Gudakesh Motie’s 39, none of the Caribbean batters were a match for the Indian brigade.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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A comprehensive performance helped India thrash West Indies by 200 runs in the final One Day Internationals at Brian Lara Stadium in Trinidad and Tobago on Wednesday (August 2).

A comprehensive performance helped India thrash West Indies by 200 runs in the final One Day Internationals at Brian Lara Stadium in Trinidad and Tobago on Wednesday (August 2). After a poor show in the second ODI, India bounced back strong in the third and posted a massive 351 score. While chasing the target, the Caribbean bundled out for a paltry 151, handing India the series win. Among the pick of bowlers from the blue brigade were Mukesh Kumar and Shardul Thakur. While Mukesh provided the early breakthrough and scalped three wickets, Shardul earned four crucial wickets to become the leading wicket-taker in the final match. After West Indies won the toss and asked India to bat first, openers Shubhman Gill and Ishan Kishan went into overdrive and started scoring at almost 7 per over in the opening phase of the play. The aggressive gameplay displayed by the left-right duo enabled India to reach 100 within 15 overs. Both put on a 143-run stand inside 20 overs before Yannic Cariah ended Ishan’s innings at 77. Soon, No. 3 batter Ruturaj Gaikwad followed suit as he got out cheaply for 8. But the run rate kept ticking for India as Sanju Samson and well-settled Gill went on to score freely. Samson’s intent was pretty much clear as he smacked a six in the second ball he faced. The aggressive knock saw the Kerala batter scoring a well-deserved half-century. Though India’s pacy innings got stumbled due to the departures of Samson and Gill, stand-in skipper Hardik Pandya ensured that his side finishes on a high. The Baroda all-rounder was at his ruthless best as he slammed 70 in 52 balls taking India beyond the 350-run mark. West Indies, on the other hand, started off on the wrong foot handing out wickets cheaply. Within seven overs, the home side was reduced to 17/3. Except for Alick Athanaze’s 32 and bowler Gudakesh Motie’s 39, none of the Caribbean batters were a match for the Indian brigade. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

India trump West Indies by 200 runs in final ODI, win series 2-1

<p>After spending 17 days in orbit around the Earth, India's third lunar spacecraft Chandrayaan-3 has bid goodbye to its orbit around the home planet and set course for its destination - Earth's Moon. By performing a Trans-Lunar Injection (TLI), a long-duration burn of its engines (around 20 minutes), Chandrayaan-3 has completely slingshot itself out of Earth'sorbit and influence, thereby putting it on a path that will eventually lead it to the moon.</p>

<p>This crucial manoeuvre has been performed on the intervening night of Monday and Tuesday (31 July and 1 August between midnight hour and 1 am Indian Standard Time).&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Chandrayaan-3 completes its orbits around the Earth and heads towards the Moon. A successful perigee-firing performed at ISTRAC, ISRO has injected the spacecraft into the translunar orbit. Next stop: the Moon. As it arrives at the moon, the Lunar-Orbit Insertion (LOI) is planned for Aug 5, 2023," the Indian space agency posted on X, formerly known as Twitter at 00:32 hrs on 1 August, Indian Standard Time.</p>

<p>So far, during its orbit around the earth, as per commands from ISRO's tracking, telemetry and command facility (ISTRAC), the spacecraft fired its onboard engines on five pre-planned occasions. During each of these engine firings, the craft slingshot itself into a higher orbit and moved further away from the Earth. But now, the craft has exited the earth's influence and set course for the moon.</p>

<p>To get its spacecraft to destinations far away from the Earth (Moon, Mars), the Indian space agency has been using the Slingshot method, scientifically known as Hohmann Transfer Orbits. This is an energy-efficient technique to get a spacecraft to its destination, in the absence of powerful and heavy-lifting rockets.</p>

<p>With extremely powerful rockets (such as America's Space Launch System), it is possible to propel a massive craft(weighing close to 40 tonnes) to the moon in less than a week. Given that India's LVM3 rocket has around only a fraction of the lifting power of global super-heavy rockets, the Indian space agency is using a time-consuming method (which takes more than a month) to get its 3.9-tonne craft to the moon, using available resources.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Having heavier and more powerful rockets offers the performance to carry heavy and more capable spacecraft. The combination of heavy rockets and heavy spacecraft will ensure that the craft is able to develop the velocity and departure energy required to rapidly exit the earth's influence and set course for the moon(Trans Lunar Injection).&nbsp;</p>

<p>Here on, the craft will travel around five days to reach a pre-determined point in space, where the moon will also be at the time. Remember, the moon is also circling the earth and the spacecraft is also circling the earth, so the craft and the moon will have to meet at a certain ideal time and place. Once that meeting happens, the craft will be captured by the moon's gravity and it would begin to orbit the moon.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Thereafter, during the ideal time and day, the lunar craft is allowed to de-boost itself and progressively get closer to the moon's surface, slow itself down gradually and prepare for a lunar landing. ISRO has planned Chandrayaan-3's lunar landing at 5:47 pm Indian Standard Time on 23rd August.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/all-about-chandrayaan-3-mission-616153"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;All about Chandrayaan-3 mission</strong></a></p>

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<p>With a mission life of one lunar day (14 Earth days), Chandrayaan-3 is meant to land near the Lunar south pole(approximately at 80 degrees latitude).</p>

<p>It is imperative for the mission's 'Vikram' lander to touch down on the Lunar surface at the start of the Lunar day, in order to make use of available sunlight(using solar panels &amp; batteries) and operate its science payloads, sensors, gather data and communicate it back to earth.</p>

<p>ISRO's Lunar spacecraft is meant to land a few hundred kilometres away from the Lunar south pole. The Lunar south pole is a region that has largely remained unexplored, owing to the near-nil sunlight illumination there. It is believed that many mysteries of the moon could be unravelled by performing in-situ probing of this region.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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After spending 17 days in orbit around the Earth, India's third lunar spacecraft Chandrayaan-3 has bid goodbye to its orbit around the home planet and set course for its destination - Earth's Moon.

After spending 17 days in orbit around the Earth, India's third lunar spacecraft Chandrayaan-3 has bid goodbye to its orbit around the home planet and set course for its destination - Earth's Moon. By performing a Trans-Lunar Injection (TLI), a long-duration burn of its engines (around 20 minutes), Chandrayaan-3 has completely slingshot itself out of Earth'sorbit and influence, thereby putting it on a path that will eventually lead it to the moon. This crucial manoeuvre has been performed on the intervening night of Monday and Tuesday (31 July and 1 August between midnight hour and 1 am Indian Standard Time). "Chandrayaan-3 completes its orbits around the Earth and heads towards the Moon. A successful perigee-firing performed at ISTRAC, ISRO has injected the spacecraft into the translunar orbit. Next stop: the Moon. As it arrives at the moon, the Lunar-Orbit Insertion (LOI) is planned for Aug 5, 2023," the Indian space agency posted on X, formerly known as Twitter at 00:32 hrs on 1 August, Indian Standard Time. So far, during its orbit around the earth, as per commands from ISRO's tracking, telemetry and command facility (ISTRAC), the spacecraft fired its onboard engines on five pre-planned occasions. During each of these engine firings, the craft slingshot itself into a higher orbit and moved further away from the Earth. But now, the craft has exited the earth's influence and set course for the moon. To get its spacecraft to destinations far away from the Earth (Moon, Mars), the Indian space agency has been using the Slingshot method, scientifically known as Hohmann Transfer Orbits. This is an energy-efficient technique to get a spacecraft to its destination, in the absence of powerful and heavy-lifting rockets. With extremely powerful rockets (such as America's Space Launch System), it is possible to propel a massive craft(weighing close to 40 tonnes) to the moon in less than a week. Given that India's LVM3 rocket has around only a fraction of the lifting power of global super-heavy rockets, the Indian space agency is using a time-consuming method (which takes more than a month) to get its 3.9-tonne craft to the moon, using available resources. Having heavier and more powerful rockets offers the performance to carry heavy and more capable spacecraft. The combination of heavy rockets and heavy spacecraft will ensure that the craft is able to develop the velocity and departure energy required to rapidly exit the earth's influence and set course for the moon(Trans Lunar Injection). Here on, the craft will travel around five days to reach a pre-determined point in space, where the moon will also be at the time. Remember, the moon is also circling the earth and the spacecraft is also circling the earth, so the craft and the moon will have to meet at a certain ideal time and place. Once that meeting happens, the craft will be captured by the moon's gravity and it would begin to orbit the moon. Thereafter, during the ideal time and day, the lunar craft is allowed to de-boost itself and progressively get closer to the moon's surface, slow itself down gradually and prepare for a lunar landing. ISRO has planned Chandrayaan-3's lunar landing at 5:47 pm Indian Standard Time on 23rd August. Watch | All about Chandrayaan-3 mission × With a mission life of one lunar day (14 Earth days), Chandrayaan-3 is meant to land near the Lunar south pole(approximately at 80 degrees latitude). It is imperative for the mission's 'Vikram' lander to touch down on the Lunar surface at the start of the Lunar day, in order to make use of available sunlight(using solar panels & batteries) and operate its science payloads, sensors, gather data and communicate it back to earth. ISRO's Lunar spacecraft is meant to land a few hundred kilometres away from the Lunar south pole. The Lunar south pole is a region that has largely remained unexplored, owing to the near-nil sunlight illumination there. It is believed that many mysteries of the moon could be unravelled by performing in-situ probing of this region. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Chandrayaan-3 leaves Earth's influence after 17 days in orbit. Next stop: Moon

<p>Fresh violence erupted in the Indian state of Haryana’s city of Gurugram, on Tuesday (August 1), after a mob of nearly 200 people rampaged across Badshahpur. This comes a day after at least five people, including two police personnel, were killed in clashes between two groups following a religious procession in the Nuh district of the same northern state.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Mob rampage on Tuesday</strong></h2>

<p>According to Indian media reports, a mob of nearly 200 men on motorbikes and SUVs vandalised at least a dozen&nbsp;shops&nbsp;in Badshahpur around 40 kilometres away and hours after the clashes in Nuh. The incident reportedly took place at 4:00 pm (local time) in the city’s main market where shops, mostly restaurants, meat shops, and roadside food stalls were targeted.&nbsp;</p>

<p>At least four&nbsp;shops were set on fire in Sector 66 and no one was reported to be injured. A fire brigade team reached the spot and controlled the blaze, reported news agency PTI. The Badshahpur market was also shut down, said the police.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, Gurugram deputy commissioner Nishant Yadav, on Tuesday described the situation as “normal,” and told ANI, “There was some spill-over impact in Sohna of whatever happened in Nuh yesterday, however, the situation was brought under control by evening.”&nbsp;<br />
<br />
He added, "Sohna was our main focus area, peace committee meeting has taken place there, normalcy restored and markets have opened. We have conducted a flag march as well...in Gurugram one death was reported in Sector 57 mosque, 5 vehicles were torched in Sohna and 2-3 shops were vandalised."</p>

<p>After the police arrived at the site where the violence was reported, some rioters managed to flee on their bikes and other vehicles, said the officials. However, some suspects have been detained, the officials added. The police also refuted the reports of some shanties being set on fire in Kadarpur road.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
<strong>Schools and&nbsp;colleges in Gurugram to remain closed</strong></p>

<p>The recent violence has also prompted the officials to close schools and colleges in the town of&nbsp;Sohna.&nbsp;Gurugram District Magistrate office released a statement and said that considering the current situation and "communal tension in the neighbouring district of Nuh, which has led to the blockage of roads by anti-social elements in bordering parts of District Gurugram, particularly sohna. Such actions may disrupt peace, tranquility, and public order in the region."&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>"In order to avoid any untoward incident and ensure the safety of the students, it is deemed necessary to close all&nbsp;government and private educational institutions" on August 2 in&nbsp;Sohna sub-division of District Gurugram, the statement added.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
<strong>Sale of loose&nbsp;petrol and diesel&nbsp;'strictly prohibited'</strong><br />
<br />
The officials also halted the sale of loose petrol and diesel in Gurugram with "immediate effect".<br />
<br />
"In wake of the ongoing communal tensions, all fuel stations operating in Gurugram have been strictly prohibited from selling loose petrol/diesel to any person with immediate effect," said Yadav, in a statement on X, formerly known as Twitter.</p>

<h2><strong>Clashes in Haryana’s Nuh</strong></h2>

<p>At least five people, including two police personnel, were killed in clashes between two groups in Nuh district, around 50 kilometres from the Indian capital Delhi, on Monday. Earlier, violence broke out when one group reportedly tried to stop a religious procession.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Five people involved in the incident have been rounded up and the others are being identified,” said the deputy commissioner of Gurugram, as per Reuters. According to officials, as many as 70 people, including police personnel, were reported injured after the clashes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The religious procession, Brij Mandaj Jalabhishek Yatra, was held by Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) – a right-wing organisation.</p>

<p>Media reports suggested that it was stopped by a group of young men on the Gurugram-Alwar National Highway and stones were reportedly hurled at the procession.</p>

<p>Over 2,500 people rushed to take shelter in a nearby temple and were later rescued. By evening, the violence had escalated as a mosque was set on fire post-midnight and hundreds of vehicles were torched overnight.</p>

<p>Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar condemned the incident and assured&nbsp;strict action against the people responsible for the violence. According to the administration, 44 FIRs have been registered so far, in which more than 70 people have been arrested, as of Tuesday.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


Fresh violence erupted in the Indian state of Haryana’s city of Gurugram, on Tuesday (August 1), after a mob of nearly 200 people rampaged across Badshahpur. This comes a day after at least five people, including two police personnel, were killed in clashes between two groups following a religious procession in the Nuh district of the same northern state.

Fresh violence erupted in the Indian state of Haryana’s city of Gurugram, on Tuesday (August 1), after a mob of nearly 200 people rampaged across Badshahpur. This comes a day after at least five people, including two police personnel, were killed in clashes between two groups following a religious procession in the Nuh district of the same northern state. Mob rampage on Tuesday According to Indian media reports, a mob of nearly 200 men on motorbikes and SUVs vandalised at least a dozen shops in Badshahpur around 40 kilometres away and hours after the clashes in Nuh. The incident reportedly took place at 4:00 pm (local time) in the city’s main market where shops, mostly restaurants, meat shops, and roadside food stalls were targeted. At least four shops were set on fire in Sector 66 and no one was reported to be injured. A fire brigade team reached the spot and controlled the blaze, reported news agency PTI. The Badshahpur market was also shut down, said the police. However, Gurugram deputy commissioner Nishant Yadav, on Tuesday described the situation as “normal,” and told ANI, “There was some spill-over impact in Sohna of whatever happened in Nuh yesterday, however, the situation was brought under control by evening.” He added, "Sohna was our main focus area, peace committee meeting has taken place there, normalcy restored and markets have opened. We have conducted a flag march as well...in Gurugram one death was reported in Sector 57 mosque, 5 vehicles were torched in Sohna and 2-3 shops were vandalised." After the police arrived at the site where the violence was reported, some rioters managed to flee on their bikes and other vehicles, said the officials. However, some suspects have been detained, the officials added. The police also refuted the reports of some shanties being set on fire in Kadarpur road. Schools and colleges in Gurugram to remain closed The recent violence has also prompted the officials to close schools and colleges in the town of Sohna. Gurugram District Magistrate office released a statement and said that considering the current situation and "communal tension in the neighbouring district of Nuh, which has led to the blockage of roads by anti-social elements in bordering parts of District Gurugram, particularly sohna. Such actions may disrupt peace, tranquility, and public order in the region." "In order to avoid any untoward incident and ensure the safety of the students, it is deemed necessary to close all government and private educational institutions" on August 2 in Sohna sub-division of District Gurugram, the statement added. Sale of loose petrol and diesel 'strictly prohibited' The officials also halted the sale of loose petrol and diesel in Gurugram with "immediate effect". "In wake of the ongoing communal tensions, all fuel stations operating in Gurugram have been strictly prohibited from selling loose petrol/diesel to any person with immediate effect," said Yadav, in a statement on X, formerly known as Twitter. Clashes in Haryana’s Nuh At least five people, including two police personnel, were killed in clashes between two groups in Nuh district, around 50 kilometres from the Indian capital Delhi, on Monday. Earlier, violence broke out when one group reportedly tried to stop a religious procession. “Five people involved in the incident have been rounded up and the others are being identified,” said the deputy commissioner of Gurugram, as per Reuters. According to officials, as many as 70 people, including police personnel, were reported injured after the clashes. The religious procession, Brij Mandaj Jalabhishek Yatra, was held by Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) – a right-wing organisation. Media reports suggested that it was stopped by a group of young men on the Gurugram-Alwar National Highway and stones were reportedly hurled at the procession. Over 2,500 people rushed to take shelter in a nearby temple and were later rescued. By evening, the violence had escalated as a mosque was set on fire post-midnight and hundreds of vehicles were torched overnight. Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar condemned the incident and assured strict action against the people responsible for the violence. According to the administration, 44 FIRs have been registered so far, in which more than 70 people have been arrested, as of Tuesday. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Fresh violence erupts in Gurugram as mob of at least 200 vandalises, sets shops on fire

<p>To head its India and South Asia operations, Microsoft Corp has named Puneet Chandok as the corporate vice president.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per a statement released on Tuesday, Chandok will take the reins from Anant Maheshwari, effective September 1st.</p>

<h2><strong>India's digital awakening</strong></h2>

<p>In a statement, Chandok&nbsp;said: "As India expands its own digital public infrastructure, I believe that this mission is more relevant here than ever before."</p>

<p>Reuters reports that along with India, Chandok will oversee the integration of Microsoft's businesses across multiple other nations in South Asia, namely Bangladesh, Bhutan, Maldives, Nepal, and Sri Lanka.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/exxonmobil-in-lithium-supply-talks-with-tesla-ford-report-621264">ExxonMobil in lithium supply talks with Tesla, Ford:&nbsp;Report</a></strong></p>

<p>The move reportedly comes as the technology giant seeks to grab a bigger share of the cloud technology market, further boosting the company’s presence in the region, while "deepening its focus on key industries through a customer-centric approach with generative AI at its core."</p>

<p>Microsoft, as per Reuters, has been investing more in India, which has emerged as a global innovation hub.</p>

<h2><strong>Company announcement</strong></h2>

<p>Announcing Chandok's appointment, Microsoft Asia President Ahmed Mazhari said: "We are delighted to announce that Puneet will be joining Microsoft India."</p>

<p>"Puneet has a strong track record of building and growing technology businesses and leveraging technology to deliver impact and change. As we embrace an AI-led future, Puneet’s leadership will play a vital role in ensuring Microsoft’s ongoing success in South Asia, and I extend my thanks to Anant Maheshwari for setting us on a growth path," he added.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/argentina-wont-use-one-dollar-of-reserves-to-repay-imf-says-economy-minister-621283">Argentina won't use 'one dollar' of reserves to repay IMF, says economy minister&nbsp;</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>Past experience</strong></h2>

<p>Chandok joins Microsoft Corp after working as Amazon Web Services (AWS) India and South Asia Vice President for over four years.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He holds a master’s in business administration (MBA) from the Indian Institute of Management Calcutta, a bachelor’s degree in commerce, and diplomas in Computer Programming, Networking, and High-level Computer Systems.</p>

<p>During his time with AWS, Puneet as per Microsoft " led the company’s India and South Asia business, working closely with enterprises, digital businesses, startups, and SMBs to help them reduce technical debt, bring in agility, and innovate."</p>

<p>Before AWS, He was a Partner at a global management consulting firm McKinsey in India and Asia and also held senior regional and global roles at IBM.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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To head its India and South Asia operations, Microsoft Corp has named Puneet Chandok as the corporate vice president. As per a statement released on Tuesday, Chandok will take the reins from Anant Maheshwari, effective September 1st.

To head its India and South Asia operations, Microsoft Corp has named Puneet Chandok as the corporate vice president. As per a statement released on Tuesday, Chandok will take the reins from Anant Maheshwari, effective September 1st. India's digital awakening In a statement, Chandok said: "As India expands its own digital public infrastructure, I believe that this mission is more relevant here than ever before." Reuters reports that along with India, Chandok will oversee the integration of Microsoft's businesses across multiple other nations in South Asia, namely Bangladesh, Bhutan, Maldives, Nepal, and Sri Lanka. Also read | ExxonMobil in lithium supply talks with Tesla, Ford: Report The move reportedly comes as the technology giant seeks to grab a bigger share of the cloud technology market, further boosting the company’s presence in the region, while "deepening its focus on key industries through a customer-centric approach with generative AI at its core." Microsoft, as per Reuters, has been investing more in India, which has emerged as a global innovation hub. Company announcement Announcing Chandok's appointment, Microsoft Asia President Ahmed Mazhari said: "We are delighted to announce that Puneet will be joining Microsoft India." "Puneet has a strong track record of building and growing technology businesses and leveraging technology to deliver impact and change. As we embrace an AI-led future, Puneet’s leadership will play a vital role in ensuring Microsoft’s ongoing success in South Asia, and I extend my thanks to Anant Maheshwari for setting us on a growth path," he added. Also read | Argentina won't use 'one dollar' of reserves to repay IMF, says economy minister Past experience Chandok joins Microsoft Corp after working as Amazon Web Services (AWS) India and South Asia Vice President for over four years. He holds a master’s in business administration (MBA) from the Indian Institute of Management Calcutta, a bachelor’s degree in commerce, and diplomas in Computer Programming, Networking, and High-level Computer Systems. During his time with AWS, Puneet as per Microsoft " led the company’s India and South Asia business, working closely with enterprises, digital businesses, startups, and SMBs to help them reduce technical debt, bring in agility, and innovate." Before AWS, He was a Partner at a global management consulting firm McKinsey in India and Asia and also held senior regional and global roles at IBM. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Microsoft appoints Puneet Chandok as lead for its India, South Asia operations

<p>At least four people were killed, including a&nbsp;Railway Protection Force (RPF) assistant sub-inspector, aboard a running&nbsp;Jaipur-Mumbai Central Express train by an RPF constable&nbsp;in the west Indian state of Maharashtra on Monday morning (July 31).</p>

<p>The incident transpired near Palghar railway station, located approximately 100 kilometres from the capital city of Mumbai. According to preliminary reports, the constable fired using his automatic weapon, shortly after 5 am, killing the RPF ASI and three other passengers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The RPF constable has been identified as Chetan Kumar Choudhary and he opened fire on his escort duty in-charge ASI Tika Ram Meena in the B5 coach of the train, according to railways officials. After killing Meena, Kumar shifted to another carriage and shot dead three passengers, the officials added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-army-soldier-goes-missing-in-kulgam-search-ops-launched-620796"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Indian Army soldier goes missing in Kulgam, search ops launched</strong></a></p>

<p>He was apprehended by police at Mira Road with the help of the Government Railway Police and other RPF officials. According to officials, he tried to flee the scene after&nbsp;pulling the alarm chain and getting down near Dahisar.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>“In an unfortunate incident on 31st July, 2023, in Train No 12956 Jaipur – Mumbai Superfast Express escorting staff constable Chetan Kumar shot at his colleague escort in charge ASI Tika Ram,"&nbsp;the Western Railway spokesperson said.</p>

<p>"The constable upon shooting his colleague, initially held passengers at gunpoint. It is regretted that ASI Tika Ram and three passengers were shot at. Constable Chetan Kumar got down near Dahisar and tried to flee after Alarm Chain Pulling. But, was arrested by RPF/Bhayandar along with the weapon."</p>

<p>“The accused has been arrested. DCP North GRP has been informed,"&nbsp;RPF added.</p>

<p>The families of the deceased persons are currently being contacted and the ex-gartia amount will be handed to them, according to the Indian Express newspaper.</p>

<p>Senior officials are currently on their way to the site while investigative agencies open the probe. The motive behind the shooting remains unknown at this stage.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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At least four people were killed, including a Railway Protection Force (RPF) assistant sub-inspector, aboard a running Jaipur-Mumbai Central Express train by an RPF constable in the west Indian state of Maharashtra on Monday morning (July 31).

At least four people were killed, including a Railway Protection Force (RPF) assistant sub-inspector, aboard a running Jaipur-Mumbai Central Express train by an RPF constable in the west Indian state of Maharashtra on Monday morning (July 31). The incident transpired near Palghar railway station, located approximately 100 kilometres from the capital city of Mumbai. According to preliminary reports, the constable fired using his automatic weapon, shortly after 5 am, killing the RPF ASI and three other passengers. The RPF constable has been identified as Chetan Kumar Choudhary and he opened fire on his escort duty in-charge ASI Tika Ram Meena in the B5 coach of the train, according to railways officials. After killing Meena, Kumar shifted to another carriage and shot dead three passengers, the officials added. Also read | Indian Army soldier goes missing in Kulgam, search ops launched He was apprehended by police at Mira Road with the help of the Government Railway Police and other RPF officials. According to officials, he tried to flee the scene after pulling the alarm chain and getting down near Dahisar. “In an unfortunate incident on 31st July, 2023, in Train No 12956 Jaipur – Mumbai Superfast Express escorting staff constable Chetan Kumar shot at his colleague escort in charge ASI Tika Ram," the Western Railway spokesperson said. "The constable upon shooting his colleague, initially held passengers at gunpoint. It is regretted that ASI Tika Ram and three passengers were shot at. Constable Chetan Kumar got down near Dahisar and tried to flee after Alarm Chain Pulling. But, was arrested by RPF/Bhayandar along with the weapon." “The accused has been arrested. DCP North GRP has been informed," RPF added. The families of the deceased persons are currently being contacted and the ex-gartia amount will be handed to them, according to the Indian Express newspaper. Senior officials are currently on their way to the site while investigative agencies open the probe. The motive behind the shooting remains unknown at this stage. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India: 4 killed as Railway Protection Force constable opens fire in moving train

<p>Following India's ban on the export&nbsp;of non-basmati white rice, the country's rice exporters have been receiving requests from buyers to advance shipments of basmati rice, news agency Reuters reported citing industry officials.</p>

<p>Earlier this month, India, which is the world's biggest exporter of rice, imposed a ban on the export&nbsp;of non-basmati white rice after retail rice prices escalated by 3% in a month after late but heavy monsoon rains caused consequential damage to crops.</p>

<p>"Buyers are requesting early shipments because they fear that the government might put restrictions on exports of basmati rice as well," said Atul Garg, managing director at GRM Overseas, a leading exporter of basmati rice.</p>

<p>He said that the buyers sign long-term contracts with the certainty of delivering a specific quantity every month. Regardless, some of the buyers are now requesting to dispatch in the month of August what was supposed to be sent in the month of September and October.</p>

<p>In 2022/23, India exported around 4.5 million metric tons of basmati rice,&nbsp;with Saudi Arabia, Iran, Iraq, United Arab Emirates, Yemen and the United States among the top buyers.</p>

<p>India has banned non-basmati white rice for export, which is mainly purchased by Senegal, Benin, Togo, Bangladesh, and Cote d'Ivoire.</p>

<p>India, previously, has never banned the export&nbsp;of basmati rice but did impose export taxes in the year 2008.</p>

<p>"We are assuring buyers that there is no possibility of a ban on basmati rice exports but some buyers are afraid due to the government's recent decisions," said another exporter based in New Delhi.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-4-killed-after-rpf-constable-opens-fire-in-moving-train-620885">India: 4 killed as Railway Protection Force constable opens fire in moving train</a></p>

<h2><strong>US stores limit rice purchases as export ban triggers panic buying&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier this week, in response to India's announcement of a ban on the export of non-basmati rice, a surge in panic buying of rice was witnessed in departmental stores across the United States.</p>

<p>The escalating demand has led to many stores imposing restrictions on the number of rice bags customers can purchase, resulting in reports of empty shelves.</p>

<p>To manage the situation and ensure fair distribution, numerous stores have put up notices limiting customers to purchasing only one rice bag per family.</p>

<p>However, concerns have arisen regarding hoarding, with fears that some individuals may stockpile rice and attempt to sell it at significantly higher prices through online forums.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>

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Following India's ban on the export of non-basmati white rice, the country's rice exporters have been receiving requests from buyers to advance shipments of basmati rice, news agency Reuters reported citing industry officials.

Following India's ban on the export of non-basmati white rice, the country's rice exporters have been receiving requests from buyers to advance shipments of basmati rice, news agency Reuters reported citing industry officials. Earlier this month, India, which is the world's biggest exporter of rice, imposed a ban on the export of non-basmati white rice after retail rice prices escalated by 3% in a month after late but heavy monsoon rains caused consequential damage to crops. "Buyers are requesting early shipments because they fear that the government might put restrictions on exports of basmati rice as well," said Atul Garg, managing director at GRM Overseas, a leading exporter of basmati rice. He said that the buyers sign long-term contracts with the certainty of delivering a specific quantity every month. Regardless, some of the buyers are now requesting to dispatch in the month of August what was supposed to be sent in the month of September and October. In 2022/23, India exported around 4.5 million metric tons of basmati rice, with Saudi Arabia, Iran, Iraq, United Arab Emirates, Yemen and the United States among the top buyers. India has banned non-basmati white rice for export, which is mainly purchased by Senegal, Benin, Togo, Bangladesh, and Cote d'Ivoire. India, previously, has never banned the export of basmati rice but did impose export taxes in the year 2008. "We are assuring buyers that there is no possibility of a ban on basmati rice exports but some buyers are afraid due to the government's recent decisions," said another exporter based in New Delhi. Also read: India: 4 killed as Railway Protection Force constable opens fire in moving train US stores limit rice purchases as export ban triggers panic buying Earlier this week, in response to India's announcement of a ban on the export of non-basmati rice, a surge in panic buying of rice was witnessed in departmental stores across the United States. The escalating demand has led to many stores imposing restrictions on the number of rice bags customers can purchase, resulting in reports of empty shelves. To manage the situation and ensure fair distribution, numerous stores have put up notices limiting customers to purchasing only one rice bag per family. However, concerns have arisen regarding hoarding, with fears that some individuals may stockpile rice and attempt to sell it at significantly higher prices through online forums. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Indian rice exporters receiving requests for early shipments of basmati rice: Report

<p>South Africa's radical leftist opposition party released a statement on Saturday calling on the leaders of China, India and Brazil to boycott the BRICS summit, which is scheduled to take place next month, in a show of support for Russian President Vladimir Putin, who will also be skipping the summit.</p>

<p>Leader of South Africa's third-largest party, the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF),&nbsp;Julius Malema urged the remaining BRICS leaders to also skip the August 22-24 summit in solidarity with Putin, at an anniversary rally.</p>

<p>"We call on the president of the People's Republic of China, India and Brazil not to come to (the) BRICS summit in solidarity with President Putin," Malema said.</p>

<p>Malema further slammed the United States for "threatening" South Africa and for keeping forward demands to turn against Putin in exchange for remaining part of the landmark African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), which grants duty-free access to most exports.</p>

<p>"They can take away AGOA and leave us with our sovereignty," the 42-year-old said, addressing a packed stadium of over 90,000 supporters wearing the party colour red.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/african-union-european-union-intensify-pressure-on-niger-coup-leaders-620608">African Union, EU intensify pressure on Niger coup leaders</a></p>

<p>Malema then denounced the corruption of the ruling African National Congress (ANC), which has governed the country since the inception of democracy in the year 1994, vowing to expel them in the next election.</p>

<p>Malusi Khwane, an unemployed 46-year-old father wearing an EFF jacket and a beret told AFP he was "fed up of the ANC government".</p>

<p>"With EFF things are going to change. Next year they can even have a better chance to win the election with our support," said Khwane.</p>

<h2><strong>Russia's summit with African leaders</strong></h2>

<p>Russia is currently hosting a high-profile summit with African leaders in Saint Petersburg.</p>

<p>On Friday, Putin and African leaders forged a strong alliance, vowing to advance a just and democratic multipolar world order.</p>

<p>Their partnership is also aimed at combatting neo-colonial practices, illegitimate sanctions and also preserving traditional moral values.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Amid international scrutiny due to Russia's involvement in Ukraine, the summit showcased Africa's continued support for Russia reported AFP.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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South Africa's radical leftist opposition party released a statement on Saturday calling on the leaders of China, India and Brazil to boycott the BRICS summit, which is scheduled to take place next month, in a show of support for Russian President Vladimir Putin, who will also be skipping the summit.

South Africa's radical leftist opposition party released a statement on Saturday calling on the leaders of China, India and Brazil to boycott the BRICS summit, which is scheduled to take place next month, in a show of support for Russian President Vladimir Putin, who will also be skipping the summit. Leader of South Africa's third-largest party, the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), Julius Malema urged the remaining BRICS leaders to also skip the August 22-24 summit in solidarity with Putin, at an anniversary rally. "We call on the president of the People's Republic of China, India and Brazil not to come to (the) BRICS summit in solidarity with President Putin," Malema said. Malema further slammed the United States for "threatening" South Africa and for keeping forward demands to turn against Putin in exchange for remaining part of the landmark African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), which grants duty-free access to most exports. "They can take away AGOA and leave us with our sovereignty," the 42-year-old said, addressing a packed stadium of over 90,000 supporters wearing the party colour red. Also read: African Union, EU intensify pressure on Niger coup leaders Malema then denounced the corruption of the ruling African National Congress (ANC), which has governed the country since the inception of democracy in the year 1994, vowing to expel them in the next election. Malusi Khwane, an unemployed 46-year-old father wearing an EFF jacket and a beret told AFP he was "fed up of the ANC government". "With EFF things are going to change. Next year they can even have a better chance to win the election with our support," said Khwane. Russia's summit with African leaders Russia is currently hosting a high-profile summit with African leaders in Saint Petersburg. On Friday, Putin and African leaders forged a strong alliance, vowing to advance a just and democratic multipolar world order. Their partnership is also aimed at combatting neo-colonial practices, illegitimate sanctions and also preserving traditional moral values. Amid international scrutiny due to Russia's involvement in Ukraine, the summit showcased Africa's continued support for Russia reported AFP. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

South Africa's radical leftist opposition party urges leaders of China, India and Brazil to boycott BRICS

<p>At least eight people, including three women, were found dead and several others were reported injured after an explosion in a warehouse of a firecracker factory in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu’s Krishnagiri district, on Saturday (July 29), said Officials. The sudden explosion has also damaged houses and some shops near the unit, according to local media reports.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What do we know about the incident?</strong></h2>

<p>The explosion is said to have occurred in the firecracker manufacturing warehouse in the Pazhayapettai area of the district. The blaze due to the explosion also spread to nearby shops and houses, said the Krishnagiri Superintendant of Police Saroj Kumar Thakur, as per ANI.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“As many as seven people have been declared dead and few others injured have been taken to a nearby government hospital for treatment,” said Thakur. The police official later revised the death toll to eight after one more person died in the mishap, reported ANI.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Images and videos from the site show police and fire services personnel on the spot while rescue efforts are said to be underway. The cause of the explosion was not immediately known.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">STORY | Visuals from Krishnagiri, Tamil Nadu where eight people died after an explosion at a firecracker unit.<br />
<br />
READ: <a href="https://t.co/eadAyYnu2R">https://t.co/eadAyYnu2R</a><br />
<br />
VIDEO: <a href="https://t.co/GE8Qsjwyvb">pic.twitter.com/GE8Qsjwyvb</a></p>
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) <a href="https://twitter.com/PTI_News/status/1685231974108016640?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 29, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2><strong>Indian PM and Home Minister express condolences</strong></h2>

<p>The Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, took to X, formerly known as Twitter, and said, “Deeply saddened by the tragic mishap at a cracker factory in Krishnagiri, Tamil Nadu, resulting in the loss of precious lives. My thoughts and prayers are with the families of the victims during this extremely difficult time. May the injured recover soon.”</p>

<p>The Indian PM also announced an ex-gratia of Rs 2,00,000 ($2,431) from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund (PMNRF) for the next of kin of each deceased. Additionally, those injured will be given Rs 50,000 ($608), said Modi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Union Home Minister Amit Shah also took to the microblogging platform and said, “Deeply saddened to know about the tragic fire accident in a crackers factory in Krishnagiri (Tamil Nadu). I extend my sincerest condolences to the family members of the deceased and pray for the speedy recovery of those injured.”<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>

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At least eight people, including three women, were found dead and several others were reported injured after an explosion in a warehouse of a firecracker factory in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu’s Krishnagiri district, on Saturday (July 29), said Officials.

At least eight people, including three women, were found dead and several others were reported injured after an explosion in a warehouse of a firecracker factory in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu’s Krishnagiri district, on Saturday (July 29), said Officials. The sudden explosion has also damaged houses and some shops near the unit, according to local media reports. What do we know about the incident? The explosion is said to have occurred in the firecracker manufacturing warehouse in the Pazhayapettai area of the district. The blaze due to the explosion also spread to nearby shops and houses, said the Krishnagiri Superintendant of Police Saroj Kumar Thakur, as per ANI. “As many as seven people have been declared dead and few others injured have been taken to a nearby government hospital for treatment,” said Thakur. The police official later revised the death toll to eight after one more person died in the mishap, reported ANI. Images and videos from the site show police and fire services personnel on the spot while rescue efforts are said to be underway. The cause of the explosion was not immediately known. STORY | Visuals from Krishnagiri, Tamil Nadu where eight people died after an explosion at a firecracker unit. READ: https://t.co/eadAyYnu2R VIDEO: pic.twitter.com/GE8Qsjwyvb — Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) July 29, 2023 × Indian PM and Home Minister express condolences The Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, took to X, formerly known as Twitter, and said, “Deeply saddened by the tragic mishap at a cracker factory in Krishnagiri, Tamil Nadu, resulting in the loss of precious lives. My thoughts and prayers are with the families of the victims during this extremely difficult time. May the injured recover soon.” The Indian PM also announced an ex-gratia of Rs 2,00,000 ($2,431) from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund (PMNRF) for the next of kin of each deceased. Additionally, those injured will be given Rs 50,000 ($608), said Modi. Union Home Minister Amit Shah also took to the microblogging platform and said, “Deeply saddened to know about the tragic fire accident in a crackers factory in Krishnagiri (Tamil Nadu). I extend my sincerest condolences to the family members of the deceased and pray for the speedy recovery of those injured.” (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India: At least 8 people killed, several injured in explosion at firecracker unit in Tamil Nadu

<p>A recent Economic Times report said that the Maharajah will no longer serve as Air India's mascot as the Tata Group is planning to re-vamp and redesign the airline. The report indicated that a large number of international passengers may not be able to connect with Maharajah, who wears a turban and has a large moustache. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Sources also said that as a part of its rebranding exercise, the Air India is developing a new colour palette consisting of red, white and purple instead of its former red and white. The addition of purple comes from Vistara's palette which is said to merge with Air India.</p>

<p>Initially designed for an in-flight memo pad, Air India's iconic mascot was inspired by the image of Syed Wajid Ali, an industrialist from Pakistan. It was conceived by the airline's Commercial Director, Bobby Kooka, the airline's art director and publicity head Jal Cowasji, and illustrator Umesh Rao of the Bombay-based advertising firm J Walter Thompson.</p>

<p>As the Maharajah took to the skies, the mascot instantly became a highly recognised symbol of Indian luxury and hospitality with his potbelly, an enormous curling moustache, a striped turban and a closed-eye calm look on his face.</p>

<p>The Maharajah was later featured on posters made by a group of designers at Air India's in-house art studio. In later years, foreign artists and designers were also commissioned, which increased the Maharajah's visual appeal. The most recognisable travel posters created by the airline between 1946 and 1972 were included in Rogue's Gallery, a collection released by Air India in 1977. Some witty ones that even piqued politicians were included in this collection.</p>

<p>A few iconic posters feature the Maharaja laying down his jacket to welcome a pretty passenger onboard and rescuing a mermaid from the sea in Sydney. A few other notable ones include the Maharajah joining a line of capuchin friars in Rome and playing the tabla among the Beatles in London.</p>

<p>“He can be a lover boy in Paris, a sumo wrestler in Tokyo, a pavement artist, a Red Indian, a monk... he can effortlessly flirt with the beauties of the world. And most importantly, he can get away with it all. Simply because he is the Maharajah," Forbes India quoted the late Kooka as saying.</p>

<p>Even though the airline battled with rising debts and countless inefficiencies, the Maharajah continued to make his appearances with grace. However, it is now time for him to leave.</p>

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A recent Economic Times report said that the Maharajah will no longer serve as Air India's mascot as the Tata Group is planning to re-vamp and redesign the airline.

A recent Economic Times report said that the Maharajah will no longer serve as Air India's mascot as the Tata Group is planning to re-vamp and redesign the airline. The report indicated that a large number of international passengers may not be able to connect with Maharajah, who wears a turban and has a large moustache. Sources also said that as a part of its rebranding exercise, the Air India is developing a new colour palette consisting of red, white and purple instead of its former red and white. The addition of purple comes from Vistara's palette which is said to merge with Air India. Initially designed for an in-flight memo pad, Air India's iconic mascot was inspired by the image of Syed Wajid Ali, an industrialist from Pakistan. It was conceived by the airline's Commercial Director, Bobby Kooka, the airline's art director and publicity head Jal Cowasji, and illustrator Umesh Rao of the Bombay-based advertising firm J Walter Thompson. As the Maharajah took to the skies, the mascot instantly became a highly recognised symbol of Indian luxury and hospitality with his potbelly, an enormous curling moustache, a striped turban and a closed-eye calm look on his face. The Maharajah was later featured on posters made by a group of designers at Air India's in-house art studio. In later years, foreign artists and designers were also commissioned, which increased the Maharajah's visual appeal. The most recognisable travel posters created by the airline between 1946 and 1972 were included in Rogue's Gallery, a collection released by Air India in 1977. Some witty ones that even piqued politicians were included in this collection. A few iconic posters feature the Maharaja laying down his jacket to welcome a pretty passenger onboard and rescuing a mermaid from the sea in Sydney. A few other notable ones include the Maharajah joining a line of capuchin friars in Rome and playing the tabla among the Beatles in London. “He can be a lover boy in Paris, a sumo wrestler in Tokyo, a pavement artist, a Red Indian, a monk... he can effortlessly flirt with the beauties of the world. And most importantly, he can get away with it all. Simply because he is the Maharajah," Forbes India quoted the late Kooka as saying. Even though the airline battled with rising debts and countless inefficiencies, the Maharajah continued to make his appearances with grace. However, it is now time for him to leave. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Flashback Friday: Looking back at the 'flying Maharajah'  

<p>The merger of Housing Development Finance Corporation Limited and HDFC Bank, which came into effect from July 1, has led to the bank’s entry into the world's top 10 financial institutions. In a LinkedIn post titled 'Revisiting The Story Of HDFC Bank And Early Days Of HDFC', veteran business journalist Tamal Bandyopadhyay delved into HDFC Bank’s initial journey, based on an extract from his book 'A Bank for the Buck'.</p>

<p><strong>Picking out the key players</strong></p>

<p>The story began on a February morning in 1994, when Parekh made a phone call to Aditya Puri, an old friend and the&nbsp;CEO of the Malaysia operations of Citibank. Parekh flew to Kuala Lumpur and told Puri that HDFC was in the process of obtaining a license from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to start a bank and that he was looking for a CEO.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Parekh had decided that Puri was the one capable enough to lead and build a top-notch private bank in the newly liberalised environment in India; one that&nbsp;could compete with other global banks. Puri considered Parekh’s offer after he promised Puri a good share of the institution’s stock.</p>

<p>Before Puri, Parekh had contacted SS Thakur, who previously served as the Controller of Foreign Exchanges in India. Parekh asked Thakur to be the bank’s Founder-Chairman. Thakur eventually joined HDFC Bank in January 1994. He was the one who helped the newly-launched bank gather bulk deposits as people were unwilling to put deposits along with home loans.</p>

<p>Lastly, Parekh had appealled&nbsp;to Vinod Yennemadi, a close friend and a corporate executive, to join him in Bombay to establish the bank. Initially, Yennemadi declined the offer saying that he wasn’t a banker. But Parekh convinced him to join, arguing that he could learn on the job.&nbsp;He eventually joined the bank in April 1994.</p>

<p><strong>Selecting a name</strong></p>

<p>Bank of Bombay (BoB) was the initial name decided for the upcoming bank, which directly clashed with the well-known Bank of Baroda (BoB). Bombay Bank, Greater Bank of Bombay, Everest Bank of India and Bombay International Bank were other names suggested by Parekh.</p>

<p>Eventually, the bank was named HDFC Bank after a majority voted for the name. Initially, Parekh was not in favour of naming the bank HDFC, as he believed that the brand would suffer if the bank failed to take off. But it was also argued that HDFC was already a renowned brand and would help the new bank cash-in on the brand's goodwill.</p>


The merger of Housing Development Finance Corporation Limited and HDFC Bank, which came into effect from July 1, has led to the bank’s entry into the world's top 10 financial institutions.

The merger of Housing Development Finance Corporation Limited and HDFC Bank, which came into effect from July 1, has led to the bank’s entry into the world's top 10 financial institutions. In a LinkedIn post titled 'Revisiting The Story Of HDFC Bank And Early Days Of HDFC', veteran business journalist Tamal Bandyopadhyay delved into HDFC Bank’s initial journey, based on an extract from his book 'A Bank for the Buck'. Picking out the key players The story began on a February morning in 1994, when Parekh made a phone call to Aditya Puri, an old friend and the CEO of the Malaysia operations of Citibank. Parekh flew to Kuala Lumpur and told Puri that HDFC was in the process of obtaining a license from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to start a bank and that he was looking for a CEO. Parekh had decided that Puri was the one capable enough to lead and build a top-notch private bank in the newly liberalised environment in India; one that could compete with other global banks. Puri considered Parekh’s offer after he promised Puri a good share of the institution’s stock. Before Puri, Parekh had contacted SS Thakur, who previously served as the Controller of Foreign Exchanges in India. Parekh asked Thakur to be the bank’s Founder-Chairman. Thakur eventually joined HDFC Bank in January 1994. He was the one who helped the newly-launched bank gather bulk deposits as people were unwilling to put deposits along with home loans. Lastly, Parekh had appealled to Vinod Yennemadi, a close friend and a corporate executive, to join him in Bombay to establish the bank. Initially, Yennemadi declined the offer saying that he wasn’t a banker. But Parekh convinced him to join, arguing that he could learn on the job. He eventually joined the bank in April 1994. Selecting a name Bank of Bombay (BoB) was the initial name decided for the upcoming bank, which directly clashed with the well-known Bank of Baroda (BoB). Bombay Bank, Greater Bank of Bombay, Everest Bank of India and Bombay International Bank were other names suggested by Parekh. Eventually, the bank was named HDFC Bank after a majority voted for the name. Initially, Parekh was not in favour of naming the bank HDFC, as he believed that the brand would suffer if the bank failed to take off. But it was also argued that HDFC was already a renowned brand and would help the new bank cash-in on the brand's goodwill.

Flashback Friday: How HDFC entered the banking business

<p>India and Britain may sign a free-trade agreement (FTA) this year since both nations have reached a consensus on broader structure of the deal, said Reuters citing a top trade ministry official.</p>

<p>"We want to finalise the deal at the earliest," Sunil Barthwal, India's commerce secretary, told reporters on Friday (July 28).</p>

<p>Barthwal said that negotiations on almost all contentious issues were completed. He added that the deal could be signed "much before" the year-end.</p>

<p>India views FTA with Britain as a crucial step to becoming a bigger exporter. The UK meanwhile, would obtain wider access for its whiskey, premium cars and legal services.</p>

<p>If the deal gets signed, it will be India's first with a developed country after its interim trade pact with Australia last year.</p>

<p>Britain has embarked on a search for diversified global trade relationships after its 2020 exit from the European Union.</p>

<p>It comes at a crucial time for Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who wants to solidify New Delhi's business-friendly image ahead of national elections early next year.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | UK government to make big investment in childcare as cost of it rise by over 6%</strong></p>

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<p>The 11th round of talks over the deal concluded recently in London when Barthwal and Commerce &amp; Industry Minister Piyush Goyal were in London.</p>

<h2><strong>Things not final yet</strong></h2>

<p>Barthwal said that out of total 26 chapters in the FTA, discussions on 19 have been closed. These include issues related to the sensitive automobile sector.</p>

<p>In spite of all this progress the countries are yet to settle differences over intellectual property rights (IPR), rules of origin and an investment treaty, separate trade ministry sources said.</p>

<p>Consensus has been reached on the issue of rules of investment but custom authorities of both countries are still working out modalities.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-uk-conclude-11th-round-of-negotiations-for-fta-next-round-of-talks-to-take-place-in-coming-months-619027">India, UK conclude 11th round of negotiations for FTA, next round of talks to take place in coming months</a></strong></p>

<p>"Nothing is final till everything is final," he said when asked about details of concessions India was offering to the UK, adding that the next round of negotiations will be held shortly.</p>

<p>India is pushing for a "zero tariff" for textile, leather and other labour-intensive manufacturing sectors while Britain had sought tariff concessions in other areas, said Barthwal.</p>

<p>Bilateral trade between India and the United Kingdom rose 16.6% year-on-year to $20.42 billion in the 2022-23 fiscal year ending in March.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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India and Britain may sign a free-trade agreement (FTA) this year since both nations have reached a consensus on broader structure of the deal, said Reuters citing a top trade ministry official.

India and Britain may sign a free-trade agreement (FTA) this year since both nations have reached a consensus on broader structure of the deal, said Reuters citing a top trade ministry official. "We want to finalise the deal at the earliest," Sunil Barthwal, India's commerce secretary, told reporters on Friday (July 28). Barthwal said that negotiations on almost all contentious issues were completed. He added that the deal could be signed "much before" the year-end. India views FTA with Britain as a crucial step to becoming a bigger exporter. The UK meanwhile, would obtain wider access for its whiskey, premium cars and legal services. If the deal gets signed, it will be India's first with a developed country after its interim trade pact with Australia last year. Britain has embarked on a search for diversified global trade relationships after its 2020 exit from the European Union. It comes at a crucial time for Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who wants to solidify New Delhi's business-friendly image ahead of national elections early next year. Watch | UK government to make big investment in childcare as cost of it rise by over 6% × The 11th round of talks over the deal concluded recently in London when Barthwal and Commerce & Industry Minister Piyush Goyal were in London. Things not final yet Barthwal said that out of total 26 chapters in the FTA, discussions on 19 have been closed. These include issues related to the sensitive automobile sector. In spite of all this progress the countries are yet to settle differences over intellectual property rights (IPR), rules of origin and an investment treaty, separate trade ministry sources said. Consensus has been reached on the issue of rules of investment but custom authorities of both countries are still working out modalities. Also Read | India, UK conclude 11th round of negotiations for FTA, next round of talks to take place in coming months "Nothing is final till everything is final," he said when asked about details of concessions India was offering to the UK, adding that the next round of negotiations will be held shortly. India is pushing for a "zero tariff" for textile, leather and other labour-intensive manufacturing sectors while Britain had sought tariff concessions in other areas, said Barthwal. Bilateral trade between India and the United Kingdom rose 16.6% year-on-year to $20.42 billion in the 2022-23 fiscal year ending in March. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Done deal? India-UK free trade agreement may be signed this year: Official

<p>A blue whale washed on a beach in souther Indian state of Andhra Pradesh. Local media reports say that the whale was found at Meghavaram beach in Santhabommali mandal on Thursday (July 27). Andhra Pradesh has a coastline on the Bay of Bengal. Officials from the forest department have reportedly told the media that the whale was a rare type of blue whale. It is listed as an endangered species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. Blue whale is the biggest mammal in the world.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Big 🐟<br />
Blue Whale that was washed up on Meghavaram beach of Santabommali mandal <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Srikakulam?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Srikakulam</a> district, about 25 feet long &amp; weighing 5 tons. <a href="https://t.co/y1hkdbj5BL">pic.twitter.com/y1hkdbj5BL</a></p>
— Dr Chaitanya Singh (@MidnightReportr) <a href="https://twitter.com/MidnightReportr/status/1684858592065961984?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 28, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Locals thronged to Meghavaram beach to catch a glimpse of the carcass of the whale. It has been reported that the whale weighed about five tonnes and was more than 25 feet long. According to the forest officials who interacted with the local media, the mammal is suspected to be a baby whale owing to its smaller size when compared to average adult blue whales. A fully grown blue whale can weigh as much as 200 tonnes. This is equivalent to the weight of 33 elephants.</p>

<p>“The cause of death is unknown. A veterinary doctor will perform a postmortem and it will be disposed of,” a forest department official said as quoted by The News Minute.</p>

<p>Last year in the month of May, locals in Santhabommali mandal were amused as a gold-painted chariot washed ashore at Sunnapalli coast. It was concluded by the officials that the chariot apparently washed up from Myanmar or Thailand owing to high tidal waves formed by Cyclone Asani.</p>

<p>The blue whale has now been discovered amid heavy rainfall in the southern state. India Meteorological Department (IMD) data has said that eight places in Andhra Pradesh, including Srikakulam, received 7 cm of rain in just 24 hours. The weather departmen has said that the low pressure area over west-central and northwest Bay of Bengal has persisted. It has been forecast that the low pressure area will turn into a depression.</p>

<p>Such a weather system is likely to cause moderate rain in several places in coastal Andhra and Rayalseema.</p>

<p>Government authorities have advised fishermen not to venture in the sea as the adverse weather means there would be winds reaching speed of 45-55 km per hour. The wind speed may also increase to 65 kmph.</p>

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A blue whale washed on a beach in souther Indian state of Andhra Pradesh. Local media reports say that the whale was found at Meghavaram beach in Santhabommali mandal on Thursday (July 27).

A blue whale washed on a beach in souther Indian state of Andhra Pradesh. Local media reports say that the whale was found at Meghavaram beach in Santhabommali mandal on Thursday (July 27). Andhra Pradesh has a coastline on the Bay of Bengal. Officials from the forest department have reportedly told the media that the whale was a rare type of blue whale. It is listed as an endangered species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. Blue whale is the biggest mammal in the world. Big 🐟 Blue Whale that was washed up on Meghavaram beach of Santabommali mandal #Srikakulam district, about 25 feet long & weighing 5 tons. pic.twitter.com/y1hkdbj5BL — Dr Chaitanya Singh (@MidnightReportr) July 28, 2023 × Locals thronged to Meghavaram beach to catch a glimpse of the carcass of the whale. It has been reported that the whale weighed about five tonnes and was more than 25 feet long. According to the forest officials who interacted with the local media, the mammal is suspected to be a baby whale owing to its smaller size when compared to average adult blue whales. A fully grown blue whale can weigh as much as 200 tonnes. This is equivalent to the weight of 33 elephants. “The cause of death is unknown. A veterinary doctor will perform a postmortem and it will be disposed of,” a forest department official said as quoted by The News Minute. Last year in the month of May, locals in Santhabommali mandal were amused as a gold-painted chariot washed ashore at Sunnapalli coast. It was concluded by the officials that the chariot apparently washed up from Myanmar or Thailand owing to high tidal waves formed by Cyclone Asani. The blue whale has now been discovered amid heavy rainfall in the southern state. India Meteorological Department (IMD) data has said that eight places in Andhra Pradesh, including Srikakulam, received 7 cm of rain in just 24 hours. The weather departmen has said that the low pressure area over west-central and northwest Bay of Bengal has persisted. It has been forecast that the low pressure area will turn into a depression. Such a weather system is likely to cause moderate rain in several places in coastal Andhra and Rayalseema. Government authorities have advised fishermen not to venture in the sea as the adverse weather means there would be winds reaching speed of 45-55 km per hour. The wind speed may also increase to 65 kmph. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

India: Blue whale washes ashore in Andhra Pradesh as state battles heavy rains

<p>A British media report claims that Indian immigrants who enter the United Kingdom illegally were advised by the country’s lawyers to pretend to be a part of the Khalistan movement and apply for asylum in Britain under false human rights claims. The report has since prompted the UK watchdog for solicitors to investigate legal firms and individuals suspected of breaching the rules.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What did the British media report claim?</strong></h2>

<p>The report is said to be based on a sting operation conducted by <em>The Daily Mail</em> and published earlier this week. An undercover reporter posing as an Indian national who arrived in Britain illegally on a small boat looking for work was charged thousands of pounds and advised to claim asylum under false pretences in the UK, said the British media report.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the report, illegal migrants from the Indian state of Punjab, are allegedly advised by some lawyers in the UK to fake persecution over their support for Khalistani groups &nbsp;– a discredited separatist movement that calls for the break-up of Punjab – to apply for asylum in the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>One of the lawyers&nbsp;asked for 10,000 pounds ($12,873) to create a “horrific” backstory for the reporter pretending to be an illegal immigrant for the asylum application. These claims reportedly included “sexual torture, beatings, slave labour, false imprisonment and death threats that left him suicidal and compelled to flee to the UK.”</p>

<p>The lawyer in question also boasted about a “success rate of more than 90 per cent” in such cases, reported <em>The Daily Mail</em>. Another lawyer said he would use what he referred to as “fine ingredients of an asylum case” and make it look like the “reporter feared for his life in India”. This would include “anti-government political allegiances, a love affair with someone from the wrong caste or being gay,” according to the British media report.</p>

<p>A separate lawyer who charged the British reporter, posing as a farmer, 5,500 pounds ($7,076) told him to claim that he participated in the farmers’ agitation and that “someone invited him to join the Khalistani separatist Amritpal Singh,” and “now he fears the Indian security agencies are after him.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the British media report, there were 74,751 asylum applications, relating to nearly 90,000 people, in 2022 – more than twice the number of applications in 2019 – with just under half from people who arrived by small boat. However, nearly one in four asylum claimants whose applications were rejected by the UK Home Office were&nbsp;appealed, last year, reported <em>The Daily Mail</em>.</p>

<h2><strong>UK PM reacts to the report</strong></h2>

<p>The UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak took to X, formerly known as Twitter, and shared the story by <em>The Daily Mail</em> and criticised the solicitors exposed during the sting operation and said, “This is what we’re up against. The Labour Party, a subset of lawyers, criminal gangs – they’re all on the same side, propping up a system of exploitation that profits from getting people to the UK illegally. I have a plan to stop it.”&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">This is what we’re up against.<br />
<br />
The Labour Party, a subset of lawyers, criminal gangs - they're all on the same side, propping up a system of exploitation that profits from getting people to the UK illegally.<br />
<br />
I have a plan to stop it.<br />
<br />
Here’s how 🧵<a href="https://t.co/ez3rYIU0uQ">https://t.co/ez3rYIU0uQ</a></p>
— Rishi Sunak (@RishiSunak) <a href="https://twitter.com/RishiSunak/status/1683782095213035522?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 25, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>UK watchdog launches investigation</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>A member of Sunak’s cabinet in the Ministry of Justice, Alex Chalk in a letter to the Solicitors Regulatory Authority (SRA) called for “full force of sanctions” against solicitors found to be abusing the country’s immigration system.</p>

<p>In response, an SRA spokesperson said, “We can confirm we are investigating the firms/individuals. As a result of the information provided, we are looking to take urgent action to make sure the public are protected.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>The SRA, which monitors more than 200,000 solicitors in England and Wales, also has the power to close down firms. Reportedly, up to 40 firms are being monitored by the authorities for suspected asylum claim abuses.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>

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A British media report claims that Indian immigrants who enter the United Kingdom illegally were advised by the country’s lawyers to pretend to be a part of the Khalistan movement and apply for asylum in Britain under false human rights claims.

A British media report claims that Indian immigrants who enter the United Kingdom illegally were advised by the country’s lawyers to pretend to be a part of the Khalistan movement and apply for asylum in Britain under false human rights claims. The report has since prompted the UK watchdog for solicitors to investigate legal firms and individuals suspected of breaching the rules. What did the British media report claim? The report is said to be based on a sting operation conducted by The Daily Mail and published earlier this week. An undercover reporter posing as an Indian national who arrived in Britain illegally on a small boat looking for work was charged thousands of pounds and advised to claim asylum under false pretences in the UK, said the British media report. According to the report, illegal migrants from the Indian state of Punjab, are allegedly advised by some lawyers in the UK to fake persecution over their support for Khalistani groups – a discredited separatist movement that calls for the break-up of Punjab – to apply for asylum in the country. One of the lawyers asked for 10,000 pounds ($12,873) to create a “horrific” backstory for the reporter pretending to be an illegal immigrant for the asylum application. These claims reportedly included “sexual torture, beatings, slave labour, false imprisonment and death threats that left him suicidal and compelled to flee to the UK.” The lawyer in question also boasted about a “success rate of more than 90 per cent” in such cases, reported The Daily Mail. Another lawyer said he would use what he referred to as “fine ingredients of an asylum case” and make it look like the “reporter feared for his life in India”. This would include “anti-government political allegiances, a love affair with someone from the wrong caste or being gay,” according to the British media report. A separate lawyer who charged the British reporter, posing as a farmer, 5,500 pounds ($7,076) told him to claim that he participated in the farmers’ agitation and that “someone invited him to join the Khalistani separatist Amritpal Singh,” and “now he fears the Indian security agencies are after him.” According to the British media report, there were 74,751 asylum applications, relating to nearly 90,000 people, in 2022 – more than twice the number of applications in 2019 – with just under half from people who arrived by small boat. However, nearly one in four asylum claimants whose applications were rejected by the UK Home Office were appealed, last year, reported The Daily Mail. UK PM reacts to the report The UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak took to X, formerly known as Twitter, and shared the story by The Daily Mail and criticised the solicitors exposed during the sting operation and said, “This is what we’re up against. The Labour Party, a subset of lawyers, criminal gangs – they’re all on the same side, propping up a system of exploitation that profits from getting people to the UK illegally. I have a plan to stop it.” This is what we’re up against. The Labour Party, a subset of lawyers, criminal gangs - they're all on the same side, propping up a system of exploitation that profits from getting people to the UK illegally. I have a plan to stop it. Here’s how 🧵https://t.co/ez3rYIU0uQ — Rishi Sunak (@RishiSunak) July 25, 2023 × UK watchdog launches investigation A member of Sunak’s cabinet in the Ministry of Justice, Alex Chalk in a letter to the Solicitors Regulatory Authority (SRA) called for “full force of sanctions” against solicitors found to be abusing the country’s immigration system. In response, an SRA spokesperson said, “We can confirm we are investigating the firms/individuals. As a result of the information provided, we are looking to take urgent action to make sure the public are protected.” The SRA, which monitors more than 200,000 solicitors in England and Wales, also has the power to close down firms. Reportedly, up to 40 firms are being monitored by the authorities for suspected asylum claim abuses. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

UK lawyers ask illegal immigrants from India to pose as Khalistanis to claim asylum: Report

<p>Foxconn Industrial Internet (FII), a&nbsp;subsidiary of the Taiwanese electronics manufacturing giant Foxconn, is proposing an investment of up to $200 million to establish an electronic components plant in the southern Indian city of Chennai.</p>

<p>According to Reuters, the CEO of FII, Brand Cheng, and other corporate representatives met last week with MK Stalin, Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, and other government leaders are to discuss the investment.</p>

<p>The Taiwan-based corporation plans to finish constructing the plant by 2024, followed by additional expenditures anticipated. However, the final decision is yet to be concluded.</p>

<p>Currently, Foxconn assembles iPhones for Apple at a unit not far from Chennai.</p>

<p>This development comes a week after the south Indian state of Karnataka announced that FII had agreed to invest $1.07 billion in a new facility. Foxconn is also in discussion with officials from the western Indian state of Gujarat, where it looks to enter India’s semiconductor sector.</p>

<p>Just a few weeks back, Foxconn had withdrawn from a $19.5 billion semiconductor&nbsp;joint venture with Vedanta, a company supported by billionaire Anil Agarwal, claiming “the project was not moving fast enough”.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Taiwanese electronics manufacturer stated that it was attempting to submit a separate application for the establishment of a semiconductor facility in India.</p>

<p>(With inputs from Reuters)&nbsp;</p>

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Foxconn Industrial Internet (FII), a subsidiary of the Taiwanese electronics manufacturing giant Foxconn, is proposing an investment of up to $200 million to establish an electronic components plant in the southern Indian city of Chennai.

Foxconn Industrial Internet (FII), a subsidiary of the Taiwanese electronics manufacturing giant Foxconn, is proposing an investment of up to $200 million to establish an electronic components plant in the southern Indian city of Chennai. According to Reuters, the CEO of FII, Brand Cheng, and other corporate representatives met last week with MK Stalin, Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, and other government leaders are to discuss the investment. The Taiwan-based corporation plans to finish constructing the plant by 2024, followed by additional expenditures anticipated. However, the final decision is yet to be concluded. Currently, Foxconn assembles iPhones for Apple at a unit not far from Chennai. This development comes a week after the south Indian state of Karnataka announced that FII had agreed to invest $1.07 billion in a new facility. Foxconn is also in discussion with officials from the western Indian state of Gujarat, where it looks to enter India’s semiconductor sector. Just a few weeks back, Foxconn had withdrawn from a $19.5 billion semiconductor joint venture with Vedanta, a company supported by billionaire Anil Agarwal, claiming “the project was not moving fast enough”. The Taiwanese electronics manufacturer stated that it was attempting to submit a separate application for the establishment of a semiconductor facility in India. (With inputs from Reuters) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Foxconn to invest $200 million to establish electronic components plant in Tamil Nadu

<p>As the opposition alliance, also called Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA), brings a no-confidence motion against the government, a 2018 video of Prime Minister Narendra Modi predicting the same has gone viral. In the video, PM Modi can be seen telling the opposition MPs sitting in the Lok Sabha (Lower House), mockingly, that they should prepare to table a similar motion in 2023.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, in 2018, Telugu Desam Party moved a no-trust vote in the parliament which was supported by several parties in the opposition. The then Speaker of the House, Sumitra Mahajan, allowed the trust vote which ultimately, the opposition lost bitterly.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the aftermath of the vote, PM Modi made the prophetic statement which has come true now.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I would like to extend my good wishes that you prepare well so that in 2023 (he pauses as members laugh) you get a chance to bring a no-confidence motion again,” PM Modi said in his address.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/opposition-alliance-india-to-submit-no-confidence-motion-against-government-619377"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Opposition alliance INDIA to move no-confidence motion against government</strong></a></p>

<p>After a 12-hour debate in 2018, the Modi-led NDA government defeated the no-confidence motion in the lower house by 199 votes. While 126 members supported the motion, 325 MPs rejected it. During the day-long session, both the government and opposition traded blows. The most noteworthy moment was when the former Congress president, Rahul Gandhi, approached Prime Minister&nbsp;Narendra Modi and gave him a hug.</p>

<p>During the address, PM Modi ridiculed the opposition, especially the Congress. The BJP leader said it was the consequence of arrogance that Congress' tally fell from over 400 at one time to nearly 40 in the 2014 Lok Sabha polls.</p>

<p>"It is due to the spirit of service that the BJP rose from two seats to winning power on its own," he added.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Opposition is bringing a No confidence motion against government which PM Modi had predicted 5 years ago! <a href="https://t.co/PBCaUe3fqG">pic.twitter.com/PBCaUe3fqG</a></p>
— DD News (@DDNewslive) <a href="https://twitter.com/DDNewslive/status/1684055829459398656?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 26, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Opposition submits notice for no-confidence motion</strong></h2>

<p>The newly minted opposition alliance is looking to cash in on its unity to put the central government under pressure. On Wednesday (July 26), Congress and&nbsp;the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) submitted notices seeking a&nbsp;no-confidence motion in the Lok Sabha against the government.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/manipur-violence-home-minister-amit-shah-writes-to-opposition-leaders-says-govt-ready-for-talks-619450"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Manipur violence: Home Minister Amit Shah writes to Opposition leaders, says 'govt ready for talks'</strong></a></p>

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<p>A no-confidence motion allows the opposition to challenge the government's majority on the floor of the House. If the motion is passed, the government is bound to resign. If the motion is admitted, it will be the 28th time in parliamentary history that it has been brought to the House floors.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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As the opposition alliance, also called Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA), brings a no-confidence motion against the government, a 2018 video of Prime Minister Narendra Modi predicting the same has gone viral.

As the opposition alliance, also called Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA), brings a no-confidence motion against the government, a 2018 video of Prime Minister Narendra Modi predicting the same has gone viral. In the video, PM Modi can be seen telling the opposition MPs sitting in the Lok Sabha (Lower House), mockingly, that they should prepare to table a similar motion in 2023. Notably, in 2018, Telugu Desam Party moved a no-trust vote in the parliament which was supported by several parties in the opposition. The then Speaker of the House, Sumitra Mahajan, allowed the trust vote which ultimately, the opposition lost bitterly. In the aftermath of the vote, PM Modi made the prophetic statement which has come true now. “I would like to extend my good wishes that you prepare well so that in 2023 (he pauses as members laugh) you get a chance to bring a no-confidence motion again,” PM Modi said in his address. Also read | Opposition alliance INDIA to move no-confidence motion against government After a 12-hour debate in 2018, the Modi-led NDA government defeated the no-confidence motion in the lower house by 199 votes. While 126 members supported the motion, 325 MPs rejected it. During the day-long session, both the government and opposition traded blows. The most noteworthy moment was when the former Congress president, Rahul Gandhi, approached Prime Minister Narendra Modi and gave him a hug. During the address, PM Modi ridiculed the opposition, especially the Congress. The BJP leader said it was the consequence of arrogance that Congress' tally fell from over 400 at one time to nearly 40 in the 2014 Lok Sabha polls. "It is due to the spirit of service that the BJP rose from two seats to winning power on its own," he added. Opposition is bringing a No confidence motion against government which PM Modi had predicted 5 years ago! pic.twitter.com/PBCaUe3fqG — DD News (@DDNewslive) July 26, 2023 × Opposition submits notice for no-confidence motion The newly minted opposition alliance is looking to cash in on its unity to put the central government under pressure. On Wednesday (July 26), Congress and the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) submitted notices seeking a no-confidence motion in the Lok Sabha against the government. Watch | Manipur violence: Home Minister Amit Shah writes to Opposition leaders, says 'govt ready for talks' × A no-confidence motion allows the opposition to challenge the government's majority on the floor of the House. If the motion is passed, the government is bound to resign. If the motion is admitted, it will be the 28th time in parliamentary history that it has been brought to the House floors. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

WATCH | PM Modi's 2018 prophecy of opposition bringing no-confidence motion goes viral

<p>The International Monetary Fund (IMF), on Tuesday (July 25) slightly raised the outlook for global growth this year given the resilient economy, particularly, service sector activity in the first quarter of 2023. However, the global lender also warned about the persistent challenges which are dampening the medium-term outlook. Meanwhile, India’s projection of economic growth is at 6.1 per cent in this year.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>IMF about the growth forecast</strong></h2>

<p>In its latest, World Economic Outlook (WEO), the IMF projected global real GDP growth of 3.0 per cent for this year, which is 0.2 percentage points higher than its April forecast. But the global growth is expected to stay there and the forecast for 2024 remained unchanged at 3.0 per cent, amid weak growth among the world’s advanced economies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The growth forecast was slightly raised as the IMF noted ease in soaring inflation as well as the acute stress that the banking sector witnessed. “We’re not out of the woods yet and growth remains on the low side,” IMF Chief Economist Pierre-Olivier Gourinchas told AFP, in an interview.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“What we are seeing when we look five years out is actually close to 3.0%, maybe a little bit above 3.0%. This is a significant slowdown compared to what we had pre-COVID,” the IMF chief economist told Reuters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The global economic growth is nearly half of what it was in two years with 6.3 per cent and also lower than 3.5 per cent in 2022, the WEO noted. Gourinchas told Reuters how the lowered growth is also related to the ageing of the global population, particularly in countries like China, Japan, and Germany.</p>

<h2><strong>Lower inflation</strong></h2>

<p>According to the IMF, the global headline inflation may fall to 6.8 per cent this year, from 8.7 per cent in 2022 and may witness a further drop to 5.2 per cent next year. On the other hand, core inflation would decline more gradually, with 6.0 per cent in 2023 from 6.5 per cent, last year to 4.7 per cent in 2024.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Gourinchas told Reuters we might have to wait until the end of 2024 or early 2025 to see the drop in inflation which the central bankers have targeted and the current cycle of monetary tightening would end.</p>

<p>However, the IMF notes that if the war in Ukraine were to intensify, given Russia’s backing out of the Black Sea grain deal, and the world witnesses a rise in extreme weather events due to the El Nino weather pattern, it could raise the prices of commodities. This in turn could trigger further rate hikes.</p>

<p>The IMF has said the world is a better place than it was and also hailed the World Health Organization’s decision to end the global health emergency due to COVID-19, which has reduced shipping costs and delivery times to pre-pandemic levels.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>‘Broadly stable’ outlook for EMDEs</strong></h2>

<p>In the emerging markets developing economies (EMDEs), a growth of 4.0 per cent is expected in 2023 and 4.1 per cent in 2024, while the overall outlook is “broadly stable,” said the IMF. Additionally, the WEO also noted that much of the global growth this year will be contributed by EMDEs like India and China, with substantially slow economic activity in advanced economies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report noted that China’s growth forecast for this year remained unchanged at 5.2 per cent. Meanwhile, advanced economies are expected to grow 1.5 per cent in 2023, which was raised by 0.2 percentage points from April and 1.4 percent in 2024.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What about India?</strong></h2>

<p>India’s growth is projected to be 6.1 per cent this year, which is up by 0.2 percentage points since the previous forecast in April. The report attributed this growth to “momentum from stronger-than-expected growth in the fourth quarter of 2022 as a result of stronger domestic investment.”</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>

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The International Monetary Fund (IMF), on Tuesday (July 25) slightly raised the outlook for global growth this year given the resilient economy, particularly, service sector activity in the first quarter of 2023.

The International Monetary Fund (IMF), on Tuesday (July 25) slightly raised the outlook for global growth this year given the resilient economy, particularly, service sector activity in the first quarter of 2023. However, the global lender also warned about the persistent challenges which are dampening the medium-term outlook. Meanwhile, India’s projection of economic growth is at 6.1 per cent in this year. IMF about the growth forecast In its latest, World Economic Outlook (WEO), the IMF projected global real GDP growth of 3.0 per cent for this year, which is 0.2 percentage points higher than its April forecast. But the global growth is expected to stay there and the forecast for 2024 remained unchanged at 3.0 per cent, amid weak growth among the world’s advanced economies. The growth forecast was slightly raised as the IMF noted ease in soaring inflation as well as the acute stress that the banking sector witnessed. “We’re not out of the woods yet and growth remains on the low side,” IMF Chief Economist Pierre-Olivier Gourinchas told AFP, in an interview. “What we are seeing when we look five years out is actually close to 3.0%, maybe a little bit above 3.0%. This is a significant slowdown compared to what we had pre-COVID,” the IMF chief economist told Reuters. The global economic growth is nearly half of what it was in two years with 6.3 per cent and also lower than 3.5 per cent in 2022, the WEO noted. Gourinchas told Reuters how the lowered growth is also related to the ageing of the global population, particularly in countries like China, Japan, and Germany. Lower inflation According to the IMF, the global headline inflation may fall to 6.8 per cent this year, from 8.7 per cent in 2022 and may witness a further drop to 5.2 per cent next year. On the other hand, core inflation would decline more gradually, with 6.0 per cent in 2023 from 6.5 per cent, last year to 4.7 per cent in 2024. Gourinchas told Reuters we might have to wait until the end of 2024 or early 2025 to see the drop in inflation which the central bankers have targeted and the current cycle of monetary tightening would end. However, the IMF notes that if the war in Ukraine were to intensify, given Russia’s backing out of the Black Sea grain deal, and the world witnesses a rise in extreme weather events due to the El Nino weather pattern, it could raise the prices of commodities. This in turn could trigger further rate hikes. The IMF has said the world is a better place than it was and also hailed the World Health Organization’s decision to end the global health emergency due to COVID-19, which has reduced shipping costs and delivery times to pre-pandemic levels. ‘Broadly stable’ outlook for EMDEs In the emerging markets developing economies (EMDEs), a growth of 4.0 per cent is expected in 2023 and 4.1 per cent in 2024, while the overall outlook is “broadly stable,” said the IMF. Additionally, the WEO also noted that much of the global growth this year will be contributed by EMDEs like India and China, with substantially slow economic activity in advanced economies. The report noted that China’s growth forecast for this year remained unchanged at 5.2 per cent. Meanwhile, advanced economies are expected to grow 1.5 per cent in 2023, which was raised by 0.2 percentage points from April and 1.4 percent in 2024. What about India? India’s growth is projected to be 6.1 per cent this year, which is up by 0.2 percentage points since the previous forecast in April. The report attributed this growth to “momentum from stronger-than-expected growth in the fourth quarter of 2022 as a result of stronger domestic investment.” (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

IMF raises 2023 global economic growth forecast to 3 per cent; India remains bright spot

<p>At least five security personnel have been injured after a mob surrounded the Chief Minister of the Indian state of Meghalaya, Conrad Sangma’s office, late Monday (July 24). This comes after chaos erupted outside the CM office where hundreds had gathered demanding the creation of a winter capital for the northeastern state.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>About the violence</strong></h2>

<p>The CM was reported to be unharmed while the mob continued to surround his office complex, located in the state’s Tura. Sangma was taken indoors as the protesters blocked the roads and posed a security threat.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Subsequently, the protesters began pelting stones, some of which hit the CM office’s windows. In turn, the police used tear gas to disperse the crowd. “At least five police personnel were injured when the crowd attacked the CM’s secretariat at Tura in the evening today,” the CM secretariat told news agency PTI.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The situation is under control but tense, said the CM’s office. Section 144 was imposed in Tura town with immediate effect. The Meghalaya CM also announced Rs 50,000 ($611) as ex-gratia payment for injured personnel and said that their medical expenses will be borne by the state government.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What preceded the protest?</strong></h2>

<p>According to the police, protesters were ostensibly seeking winter capital before a large number of outsiders entered the crowd gathered and began throwing stones at the office. There were also reports of tyres being burnt in several places across the town.</p>

<p>Prior to the violence, the Meghalaya CM was in the midst of holding a key meeting with the representatives of protesting civil bodies – Achik Conscious Holistically Integrated Krima (ACHIK) and the Garo Hills State Movement Committee (GHSMC).&nbsp;</p>

<p>The groups, which were invited by Sangma for talks, had been on a hunger strike and had demanded that Tura be declared the winter capital of the state. According to officials, CM had engaged in “peaceful discussion with agitating organisations for over 3 hours at Tura” during the day, reported PTI.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>CM addresses the incident</strong></h2>

<p>The Meghalaya CM called the incident “very unfortunate,” in a video statement after the violence and said that the discussions with the protest leaders were almost over when they “heard some agitation from outside,” adding that “it seems that the pelting of stones was initiated by people who were not part of the agitating groups.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I asked them not to create any scene out here. Their leaders (of the protesting NGOs) went outside to speak to the people. They came back and said they did not know who these people were, never seen them before during the fasting protest,” he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sangma also said that the leaders themselves were taking shelter inside when the violence began, as they were not able to leave. Another meeting on the issue will be held in the presence of all stakeholders, said the CM, which has been tentatively scheduled in the state capital Shillong next month.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>

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At least five security personnel have been injured after a mob surrounded the Chief Minister of the Indian state of Meghalaya, Conrad Sangma’s office, late Monday (July 24).

At least five security personnel have been injured after a mob surrounded the Chief Minister of the Indian state of Meghalaya, Conrad Sangma’s office, late Monday (July 24). This comes after chaos erupted outside the CM office where hundreds had gathered demanding the creation of a winter capital for the northeastern state. About the violence The CM was reported to be unharmed while the mob continued to surround his office complex, located in the state’s Tura. Sangma was taken indoors as the protesters blocked the roads and posed a security threat. Subsequently, the protesters began pelting stones, some of which hit the CM office’s windows. In turn, the police used tear gas to disperse the crowd. “At least five police personnel were injured when the crowd attacked the CM’s secretariat at Tura in the evening today,” the CM secretariat told news agency PTI. The situation is under control but tense, said the CM’s office. Section 144 was imposed in Tura town with immediate effect. The Meghalaya CM also announced Rs 50,000 ($611) as ex-gratia payment for injured personnel and said that their medical expenses will be borne by the state government. What preceded the protest? According to the police, protesters were ostensibly seeking winter capital before a large number of outsiders entered the crowd gathered and began throwing stones at the office. There were also reports of tyres being burnt in several places across the town. Prior to the violence, the Meghalaya CM was in the midst of holding a key meeting with the representatives of protesting civil bodies – Achik Conscious Holistically Integrated Krima (ACHIK) and the Garo Hills State Movement Committee (GHSMC). The groups, which were invited by Sangma for talks, had been on a hunger strike and had demanded that Tura be declared the winter capital of the state. According to officials, CM had engaged in “peaceful discussion with agitating organisations for over 3 hours at Tura” during the day, reported PTI. CM addresses the incident The Meghalaya CM called the incident “very unfortunate,” in a video statement after the violence and said that the discussions with the protest leaders were almost over when they “heard some agitation from outside,” adding that “it seems that the pelting of stones was initiated by people who were not part of the agitating groups.” “I asked them not to create any scene out here. Their leaders (of the protesting NGOs) went outside to speak to the people. They came back and said they did not know who these people were, never seen them before during the fasting protest,” he added. Sangma also said that the leaders themselves were taking shelter inside when the violence began, as they were not able to leave. Another meeting on the issue will be held in the presence of all stakeholders, said the CM, which has been tentatively scheduled in the state capital Shillong next month. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India: At least five injured after mob attacks Meghalaya CM’s office; section 144 imposed in Tura

<p>Chandrayaan-3 spacecraft completed its fifth and final orbit-raising manoeuvre (Earth-bound perigee firing), on Tuesday (July 25) said the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). In the upcoming days, the spacecraft is expected to shift to an Earth-to-Moon trajectory where it will eventually enter lunar orbit.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>ISRO’s Chandrayaan-3 mission update</strong></h2>

<p>ISRO took to Twitter and said, “The orbit-raising maneuver (Earth-bound perigee firing) is performed successfully from ISTRAC/ISRO, Bengaluru. The spacecraft is expected to attain an orbit of 127609 km x 236 km. The achieved orbit will be confirmed after the observations.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Indian space agency also announced that the next firing of the TransLunar Injection (TLI) is planned for 1 August, 2023 between 12:00 am and 1:00 am (local time).&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Chandrayaan-3 Mission:<br />
<br />
The orbit-raising maneuver (Earth-bound perigee firing) is performed successfully from ISTRAC/ISRO, Bengaluru.<br />
<br />
The spacecraft is expected to attain an orbit of 127609 km x 236 km. The achieved orbit will be confirmed after the observations.<br />
<br />
The next… <a href="https://t.co/LYb4XBMaU3">pic.twitter.com/LYb4XBMaU3</a></p>
— ISRO (@isro) <a href="https://twitter.com/isro/status/1683767962560512000?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 25, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>About the Chandrayaan-3 mission</strong></h2>

<p>On July 14, India launched its third lunar mission from Satish Dhawan Space Station in the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh’s Sriharikota, where it began its 3,84,000 kilometres from Earth to the Moon. In about 40 days Chandrayaan-3&nbsp;is expected to make a soft landing at 5:47 pm (local time) on August 23.<br />
<br />
<strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/chandrayaan-3-update-10-days-after-launch-chandrayaan-3-soon-to-escape-earths-orbit-618944">Chandrayaan-3 update: 10 days after launch, Chandrayaan-3 to escape Earth's orbit soon</a></strong><br />
<br />
Chandrayaan-3 is expected to reach the Moon’s South Pole. which is a less explored location that could potentially yield valuable scientific data, for a soft landing with a lander and a rover. If successful, India would be the fourth nation after the United States, Russia and China, to perform a soft landing on the Moon.&nbsp;</p>

<p>ISRO’s Chandrayaan-3 is meant to land a few hundred kilometres away from the Moon’s south pole – a region that has also largely remained unexplored, owing to the near-nil sunlight illumination there. However, it is believed that many mysteries of the Moon could be unravelled by performing in-situ probing of this region.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
<strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/indias-chandrayaan-3-to-make-lunar-landing-on-august-23-615703">India's Chandrayaan-3 to make lunar landing on August 23. Here’s what will happen next</a></strong><br />
<br />
In case things don’t go as planned and there is a delay in the landing, ISRO also has the option of allowing the spacecraft to circle the Moon and carry out the landing at the break of the following lunar dawn (which could be almost a month after the intended landing date of August 23).</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
<br />
<br />
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Chandrayaan-3 spacecraft completed its fifth and final orbit-raising manoeuvre (Earth-bound perigee firing), on Tuesday (July 25) said the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).

Chandrayaan-3 spacecraft completed its fifth and final orbit-raising manoeuvre (Earth-bound perigee firing), on Tuesday (July 25) said the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). In the upcoming days, the spacecraft is expected to shift to an Earth-to-Moon trajectory where it will eventually enter lunar orbit. ISRO’s Chandrayaan-3 mission update ISRO took to Twitter and said, “The orbit-raising maneuver (Earth-bound perigee firing) is performed successfully from ISTRAC/ISRO, Bengaluru. The spacecraft is expected to attain an orbit of 127609 km x 236 km. The achieved orbit will be confirmed after the observations.” The Indian space agency also announced that the next firing of the TransLunar Injection (TLI) is planned for 1 August, 2023 between 12:00 am and 1:00 am (local time). Chandrayaan-3 Mission: The orbit-raising maneuver (Earth-bound perigee firing) is performed successfully from ISTRAC/ISRO, Bengaluru. The spacecraft is expected to attain an orbit of 127609 km x 236 km. The achieved orbit will be confirmed after the observations. The next… pic.twitter.com/LYb4XBMaU3 — ISRO (@isro) July 25, 2023 × About the Chandrayaan-3 mission On July 14, India launched its third lunar mission from Satish Dhawan Space Station in the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh’s Sriharikota, where it began its 3,84,000 kilometres from Earth to the Moon. In about 40 days Chandrayaan-3 is expected to make a soft landing at 5:47 pm (local time) on August 23. ALSO READ | Chandrayaan-3 update: 10 days after launch, Chandrayaan-3 to escape Earth's orbit soon Chandrayaan-3 is expected to reach the Moon’s South Pole. which is a less explored location that could potentially yield valuable scientific data, for a soft landing with a lander and a rover. If successful, India would be the fourth nation after the United States, Russia and China, to perform a soft landing on the Moon. ISRO’s Chandrayaan-3 is meant to land a few hundred kilometres away from the Moon’s south pole – a region that has also largely remained unexplored, owing to the near-nil sunlight illumination there. However, it is believed that many mysteries of the Moon could be unravelled by performing in-situ probing of this region. ALSO READ | India's Chandrayaan-3 to make lunar landing on August 23. Here’s what will happen next In case things don’t go as planned and there is a delay in the landing, ISRO also has the option of allowing the spacecraft to circle the Moon and carry out the landing at the break of the following lunar dawn (which could be almost a month after the intended landing date of August 23). (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Chandrayaan-3 successfully completes final Earth orbit-raising manoeuvre: ISRO

<p>India's nodal agency for computer security-related threats has issued a warning to citizens and organisations about the emergence of a new ransomware called 'Akira'.&nbsp;Union government's Computer Emergency Response Team-India (CERT-In) issued the critical advisory on Monday, stating that the ransomware was targeting both Windows and Linux-based operating systems.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The agency informed that the group responsible for the ransomware compromised the users via VPN services, particularly when the users had&nbsp;not&nbsp;enabled multi-factor authentication. It also hoodwinked the users through tools such as AnyDesk, WinRAR, and PC Hunter, to download benign-looking files.</p>

<p>Once inside the system, the ransomware turns itself on and encrypts all sensitive information and converts them into files with .akira extensions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The attack process begins when a sample of the Akira ransomware is executed. Upon execution, Akira deletes the Windows Shadow Volume Copies on the targeted device. The ransomware then encrypts files with a predefined set of extensions. A '.akira' extension is appended to each encrypted file's name during this encryption process," noted the agency.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-ransomware-attack-on-aiims-server-is-the-world-prepared-to-fight-a-cyber-war-537227"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas | 'Ransomware' attack on AIIMS server: Is the world prepared to fight a cyber war?</strong></a></p>

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<p>Once the data is harvested, the victims are threatened to pay a ransom or else the content, explicit in some instances, will be posted on social media platforms. Meanwhile, corporate companies are threatened that their trade secrets will be sold on the dark web to the highest bidder.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What you can do to avoid ransomware attacks&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The ransomware has been active in the cyber world since March 2023, most often breaching corporate networks. To avoid becoming a victim, CERT-In advises the users to follow basic internet hygiene and protection protocols,&nbsp;</p>

<p>Maintaining official backups of critical data is highly recommended to avoid data loss even when the bad actors get their hands on it.</p>

<p>To ensure hackers have no way in,&nbsp;strong password policies and multi-factor authentication (MFA) should be enforced religiously.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Similarly, a strict External Device (USB drive) usage policy and data-at-rest and data-in-transit encryption should be used. Attachments with file types such as&nbsp;exe, pif, tmp, url, vb, vbe, scr, reg, cer, pst, md among others should be blocked</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/chinese-hackers-target-foreign-government-officials-using-a-new-malware-514835"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Chinese hackers target foreign government officials using a new malware</strong></a></p>

<p>Additionally, conduct Vulnerability Assessment and Penetration Testing (VAPT) and information security audits of critical networks/systems, especially database servers, from CERT-IN empanelled auditors. Repeat audits at regular intervals</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong>:&nbsp;</p>

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India's nodal agency for computer security-related threats has issued a warning to citizens and organisations about the emergence of a new ransomware called 'Akira'.

India's nodal agency for computer security-related threats has issued a warning to citizens and organisations about the emergence of a new ransomware called 'Akira'. Union government's Computer Emergency Response Team-India (CERT-In) issued the critical advisory on Monday, stating that the ransomware was targeting both Windows and Linux-based operating systems. The agency informed that the group responsible for the ransomware compromised the users via VPN services, particularly when the users had not enabled multi-factor authentication. It also hoodwinked the users through tools such as AnyDesk, WinRAR, and PC Hunter, to download benign-looking files. Once inside the system, the ransomware turns itself on and encrypts all sensitive information and converts them into files with .akira extensions. "The attack process begins when a sample of the Akira ransomware is executed. Upon execution, Akira deletes the Windows Shadow Volume Copies on the targeted device. The ransomware then encrypts files with a predefined set of extensions. A '.akira' extension is appended to each encrypted file's name during this encryption process," noted the agency. Watch | Gravitas | 'Ransomware' attack on AIIMS server: Is the world prepared to fight a cyber war? × Once the data is harvested, the victims are threatened to pay a ransom or else the content, explicit in some instances, will be posted on social media platforms. Meanwhile, corporate companies are threatened that their trade secrets will be sold on the dark web to the highest bidder. What you can do to avoid ransomware attacks The ransomware has been active in the cyber world since March 2023, most often breaching corporate networks. To avoid becoming a victim, CERT-In advises the users to follow basic internet hygiene and protection protocols, Maintaining official backups of critical data is highly recommended to avoid data loss even when the bad actors get their hands on it. To ensure hackers have no way in, strong password policies and multi-factor authentication (MFA) should be enforced religiously. Similarly, a strict External Device (USB drive) usage policy and data-at-rest and data-in-transit encryption should be used. Attachments with file types such as exe, pif, tmp, url, vb, vbe, scr, reg, cer, pst, md among others should be blocked Also read | Chinese hackers target foreign government officials using a new malware Additionally, conduct Vulnerability Assessment and Penetration Testing (VAPT) and information security audits of critical networks/systems, especially database servers, from CERT-IN empanelled auditors. Repeat audits at regular intervals (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India: Government warns of 'Akira' ransomware targeting Windows and Linux users

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuid9kjojMaM31b0" /><meta charset="utf-8" />A couple of days after India blocked Chinese automaker BYD's $1 billion bid to set up an electric vehicle (EV) factory in the country, Beijing's top diplomat has urged New Delhi to rethink the decision, adding that the two countries were not 'threats' to each other.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Wang Yi, whose position within the Communist party ranks above that of a foreign minister, met India's National Security Adviser (NSA) Ajit Doval and called for policies to “enhance strategic mutual trust” and “focus on consensus and cooperation”, according to a readout released by the Chinese foreign ministry.</p>

<p>The meeting took place on the sidelines of a gathering of BRICS members in Johannesburg, South Africa on Monday (July 24). BRICS is a grouping of emerging economies Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa.</p>

<p>"Whether China and India support or exhaust each other will directly affect the two countries' respective development processes and the global landscape," Wang reportedly told Doval, according to Chinese mouthpiece Global Times.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indias-ev-market-races-to-catch-up-indias-ev-infrastructure-roadblock-for-buyers-591456"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;India's EV market races to catch up | India's EV infrastructure: Roadblock for buyers</strong></a></p>

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<p>The top diplomat added that Beijing was not looking to follow the old world order of 'seeking hegemony'.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"China will never tread the old path of seeking hegemony taken by some countries. It is willing to work together with a vast number of developing countries, including India, to support multilateralism and democratisation of international relations," Wang emphasised.</p>

<p>"Wang Yi said that China and India should adhere to the strategic judgment that the two countries are not threats to each other but opportunities for each other's development," the publication noted.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Chinese leader added that both countries should put&nbsp;"relations back onto a track of healthy and stable development at an early date".</p>

<h2><strong>What happened with BYD?</strong></h2>

<p>Notably, last week, India rejected the Chinese EV giant's proposal to build EVs as well as electric batteries in the lucrative Indian market, in partnership with an Indian company Megha Engineering and Infrastructure Ltd., citing 'security concerns'.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Security concerns with respect to Chinese investments in India were flagged during the deliberations,” an Indian official was quoted as saying by Economic Times. Another official cited ‘existing guidelines’ to claim that such Chinese investments were not possible.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/india-trashes-chinese-ev-maker-byds-proposal-to-set-up-1bn-plant-618479" target="_blank"><strong>Also read | India trashes Chinese EV maker BYD’s proposal to set up $1 billion plant</strong></a></p>

<p>Currently, BYD has plans to sell at least 15,000 units if EVs in the Indian market in 2023. Despite the rejection, the company plans to expand its distribution network in India and upgrade manufacturing capacity.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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A couple of days after India blocked Chinese automaker BYD's $1 billion bid to set up an electric vehicle (EV) factory in the country, Beijing's top diplomat has urged New Delhi to rethink the decision, adding that the two countries were not 'threats' to each other.

A couple of days after India blocked Chinese automaker BYD's $1 billion bid to set up an electric vehicle (EV) factory in the country, Beijing's top diplomat has urged New Delhi to rethink the decision, adding that the two countries were not 'threats' to each other. Wang Yi, whose position within the Communist party ranks above that of a foreign minister, met India's National Security Adviser (NSA) Ajit Doval and called for policies to “enhance strategic mutual trust” and “focus on consensus and cooperation”, according to a readout released by the Chinese foreign ministry. The meeting took place on the sidelines of a gathering of BRICS members in Johannesburg, South Africa on Monday (July 24). BRICS is a grouping of emerging economies Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa. "Whether China and India support or exhaust each other will directly affect the two countries' respective development processes and the global landscape," Wang reportedly told Doval, according to Chinese mouthpiece Global Times. Watch | India's EV market races to catch up | India's EV infrastructure: Roadblock for buyers × The top diplomat added that Beijing was not looking to follow the old world order of 'seeking hegemony'. "China will never tread the old path of seeking hegemony taken by some countries. It is willing to work together with a vast number of developing countries, including India, to support multilateralism and democratisation of international relations," Wang emphasised. "Wang Yi said that China and India should adhere to the strategic judgment that the two countries are not threats to each other but opportunities for each other's development," the publication noted. The Chinese leader added that both countries should put "relations back onto a track of healthy and stable development at an early date". What happened with BYD? Notably, last week, India rejected the Chinese EV giant's proposal to build EVs as well as electric batteries in the lucrative Indian market, in partnership with an Indian company Megha Engineering and Infrastructure Ltd., citing 'security concerns'. “Security concerns with respect to Chinese investments in India were flagged during the deliberations,” an Indian official was quoted as saying by Economic Times. Another official cited ‘existing guidelines’ to claim that such Chinese investments were not possible. Also read | India trashes Chinese EV maker BYD’s proposal to set up $1 billion plant Currently, BYD has plans to sell at least 15,000 units if EVs in the Indian market in 2023. Despite the rejection, the company plans to expand its distribution network in India and upgrade manufacturing capacity. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'We are not threats...': After India dumps BYD’s factory plans, Beijing urges New Delhi to rethink

<p>In a disturbing&nbsp;incident, the police in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh have lodged a case against five fishermen after they allegedly caught a rare Gangetic dolphin -an endangered species- from the Yamuna River and ate it.</p>

<p>According to a PTI report, the police took the action after a video of the incident went viral on social media on Sunday (July 23). The Kaushambi police released a statement saying it had arrested one perpetrator while an investigation was on to nab the others.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"On the basis of the written information given by Forest Officer Ravindra Kumar in connection with the hunting of Gangetic dolphins in Yamuna river village Naseerpur, a case has been registered in Pipri police station. One accused has been arrested in the case, and soon the rest of the accused will be arrested," read the statement by the police.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The arrested culprit has been identified as Ranjeet while Sanjay, Diwan, Babaji and Gendalal remain on the run. &nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-climate-tracker-pink-dolphins-rescued-in-bolivia-526542"><strong>WION Climate Tracker: Pink dolphins rescued in Bolivia</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>Netizens enraged&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Netizens were furious after the incident came to light, with many demanding harsh action against the offenders.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Dolphins are among the most loving and intelligent of loving being. They exhibit almost all emotions of a human. This is akin to and treated as killing another human," said one user.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Horrible animal abuse. Thankful one has been arrested and looking for the others. Hate abusers," added another.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, a third said, "Gangetic dolphins are dwindling in numbers, we should try and give back their habitat as it used to be ( difficult of course, but with awareness can be improved). I remember seeing them when I was small. While crossing the Ganga on ferry often they would surface."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/watch-pink-dolphins-make-splash-in-louisiana-waters-taking-social-media-by-storm-617953"><strong>WATCH | Pink dolphins make a splash in Louisiana waters, leaving social media stunned</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>Dwindling population of Gangetic dolphins</strong></h2>

<p>The Gangetic dolphins&nbsp;once roamed the entire length of the Ganga and Brahmaputra, and their tributaries. However, rapid industrialisation, and the increasing use of pesticides, fertilisers and other chemical substances have contributed to a drastic decline in their numbers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per a 2018 National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) report, the population in the river and its tributaries reduced from about 10,000 in the late 19th century to around 3,526 in 2014. The IUCN Red List has placed these mammals in the "endangered" category. A recent World Wide Fund for Nature&nbsp;(WWF) report pegs their population at less than 2,000.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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In a disturbing incident, the police in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh have lodged a case against five fishermen after they allegedly caught a rare Gangetic dolphin -an endangered species- from the Yamuna River and ate it.

In a disturbing incident, the police in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh have lodged a case against five fishermen after they allegedly caught a rare Gangetic dolphin -an endangered species- from the Yamuna River and ate it. According to a PTI report, the police took the action after a video of the incident went viral on social media on Sunday (July 23). The Kaushambi police released a statement saying it had arrested one perpetrator while an investigation was on to nab the others. "On the basis of the written information given by Forest Officer Ravindra Kumar in connection with the hunting of Gangetic dolphins in Yamuna river village Naseerpur, a case has been registered in Pipri police station. One accused has been arrested in the case, and soon the rest of the accused will be arrested," read the statement by the police. The arrested culprit has been identified as Ranjeet while Sanjay, Diwan, Babaji and Gendalal remain on the run. WION Climate Tracker: Pink dolphins rescued in Bolivia × Netizens enraged Netizens were furious after the incident came to light, with many demanding harsh action against the offenders. "Dolphins are among the most loving and intelligent of loving being. They exhibit almost all emotions of a human. This is akin to and treated as killing another human," said one user. "Horrible animal abuse. Thankful one has been arrested and looking for the others. Hate abusers," added another. Meanwhile, a third said, "Gangetic dolphins are dwindling in numbers, we should try and give back their habitat as it used to be ( difficult of course, but with awareness can be improved). I remember seeing them when I was small. While crossing the Ganga on ferry often they would surface." WATCH | Pink dolphins make a splash in Louisiana waters, leaving social media stunned Dwindling population of Gangetic dolphins The Gangetic dolphins once roamed the entire length of the Ganga and Brahmaputra, and their tributaries. However, rapid industrialisation, and the increasing use of pesticides, fertilisers and other chemical substances have contributed to a drastic decline in their numbers. As per a 2018 National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) report, the population in the river and its tributaries reduced from about 10,000 in the late 19th century to around 3,526 in 2014. The IUCN Red List has placed these mammals in the "endangered" category. A recent World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) report pegs their population at less than 2,000. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India: Fishermen eat dolphin after accidentally catching it, police nab one

<p>Indian rescuers in the state of Maharashtra’s Raigad district, where a massive landslide led to the death of at least 27 people, called off the search and rescue efforts, on Sunday (July 23). This comes as nearly 60 people are still missing, said the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) official.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>About the landslide</strong></h2>

<p>The landslide occurred in Raigad district’s Irshalwadi village on July 19 amid torrential rains in the region at around 11:00 pm (local time). The village is situated on a hill slope under Khalapur tehsil which is located around 80 kilometres from the Indian financial capital city of &nbsp;Mumbai.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Irshalwadi village is said to be home to at least 225 people out of which, more than 80&nbsp;managed to escape.</p>

<h2><strong>Search and rescue operations called off</strong></h2>

<p>At least 228 people have been affected by the landslide, according to state minister Uday Samant.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-death-toll-from-landslide-in-maharashtra-climbs-to-22-618326">&nbsp;India: Death toll from landslide in Maharashtra climbs to 26</a></strong></p>

<p>Addressing a press conference, Samant, who is also the guardian minister of Raigad, said that the decision to call off the search and rescue operations was taken after consulting the district administration and other concerned authorities, as well as local residents.</p>

<p>According to officials, 27 bodies have been recovered from the debris by the NDRF and other social organisations who were engaged in relief and rescue work for four days now. However, nobody was found from the debris on Sunday, reported the Indian media citing officials.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Additionally, the bodies of 12 men, 10 women and four children are yet to be identified, according to the officials. They added that nine members of a family had perished in the disaster.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The landslide also caused around 17 of the 48 houses in the village, which is at least an hour away from a motorable road, to be fully or partially buried due to the debris, as per media reports.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Indian minister Samant has said that those affected will be given houses by the City and Industrial Development Corporation. He added that in a bid to avoid future tragedies, five villages will be rehabilitated and a total of 20 villages will be surveyed.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Maharashtra CM to ‘adopt’ children</strong></h2>

<p>Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde will “adopt” the 22 children who have lost their parents due to the Irshalwadi landslide, said the state’s legislative council deputy chairperson Neelam Gorhe, on Saturday.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mumbai-police-receive-call-about-rdx-laden-tanker-going-from-city-to-goa-with-two-pak-nationals-618625">Mumbai police receive call about RDX-laden tanker going from city to Goa with two Pak nationals</a></strong></p>

<p>The &nbsp;Shrikant Shinde Foundation, an NGO run by the CM’s son and member of parliament Dr Shrikant Shinde, will adopt and bear their education and other expenses till they attain adulthood. “Several children who were at the ashram schools have lost their parents. These children are in the age group of 2 to 15 years,” said Dr Shinde, in a statement on Twitter.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added, “Taking this into consideration, Dr Shrikant Shinde Foundation has decided to support all the children who have been orphaned in the Irshalwadi landslide.”&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em><br />
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Indian rescuers in the state of Maharashtra’s Raigad district, where a massive landslide led to the death of at least 27 people, called off the search and rescue efforts, on Sunday (July 23).

Indian rescuers in the state of Maharashtra’s Raigad district, where a massive landslide led to the death of at least 27 people, called off the search and rescue efforts, on Sunday (July 23). This comes as nearly 60 people are still missing, said the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) official. About the landslide The landslide occurred in Raigad district’s Irshalwadi village on July 19 amid torrential rains in the region at around 11:00 pm (local time). The village is situated on a hill slope under Khalapur tehsil which is located around 80 kilometres from the Indian financial capital city of Mumbai. Irshalwadi village is said to be home to at least 225 people out of which, more than 80 managed to escape. Search and rescue operations called off At least 228 people have been affected by the landslide, according to state minister Uday Samant. ALSO READ | India: Death toll from landslide in Maharashtra climbs to 26 Addressing a press conference, Samant, who is also the guardian minister of Raigad, said that the decision to call off the search and rescue operations was taken after consulting the district administration and other concerned authorities, as well as local residents. According to officials, 27 bodies have been recovered from the debris by the NDRF and other social organisations who were engaged in relief and rescue work for four days now. However, nobody was found from the debris on Sunday, reported the Indian media citing officials. Additionally, the bodies of 12 men, 10 women and four children are yet to be identified, according to the officials. They added that nine members of a family had perished in the disaster. The landslide also caused around 17 of the 48 houses in the village, which is at least an hour away from a motorable road, to be fully or partially buried due to the debris, as per media reports. Meanwhile, Indian minister Samant has said that those affected will be given houses by the City and Industrial Development Corporation. He added that in a bid to avoid future tragedies, five villages will be rehabilitated and a total of 20 villages will be surveyed. Maharashtra CM to ‘adopt’ children Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde will “adopt” the 22 children who have lost their parents due to the Irshalwadi landslide, said the state’s legislative council deputy chairperson Neelam Gorhe, on Saturday. ALSO READ | Mumbai police receive call about RDX-laden tanker going from city to Goa with two Pak nationals The Shrikant Shinde Foundation, an NGO run by the CM’s son and member of parliament Dr Shrikant Shinde, will adopt and bear their education and other expenses till they attain adulthood. “Several children who were at the ashram schools have lost their parents. These children are in the age group of 2 to 15 years,” said Dr Shinde, in a statement on Twitter. He added, “Taking this into consideration, Dr Shrikant Shinde Foundation has decided to support all the children who have been orphaned in the Irshalwadi landslide.” (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India: Death toll rises to 27 in Maharashtra landslide, rescue efforts called off with many still missing

<p>A three-year-old kid, who fell into a 40-foot borewell on Sunday, was rescued by the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) team after five hours of extensive operation. As per the reports, the boy&nbsp;is in stable condition and has been taken to the hospital.</p>

<p>"The child is fine and has been rescued. He has been sent to the hospital. It took us around 5 hours to rescue him, Ranjeet Kumar," NDRF officer, Nalanda, Bihar told ANI.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | The child is fine and has been rescued. He has been sent to hospital. It took us around 5 hours to rescue him, says Ranjeet Kumar, NDRF officer, Nalanda, Bihar <a href="https://t.co/nPyMGwuHYT">pic.twitter.com/nPyMGwuHYT</a></p>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>The incident took place in Kul village situated in Bihar's Nalanda. As per news agency ANI, the officials said that the child has been identified as Shivam Kumar.</p>

<p>According to the details, a farmer had made the borewell but did not close it. Shivam, while playing with the kids, fell into the borewell. The rescue operation began when the other kids informed the three-year-old's parents.</p>

<p>Nalin Maurya, Vice President of Nagar Panchayat Nalanda, was assisting the rescue operation.</p>

<p>While speaking with news agency ANI, Maurya said, "This borewell was made by the farmer for boring. But boring didn't succeed here, so they started boring in another place and this borewell was not closed".</p>

<p><strong>Also read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/south-american-weed-gives-indian-elephants-a-run-for-their-habitat-618638">South American weed gives Indian Elephants a run for their habitat</a></p>

<p>"We received information that a child fell into a borewell. We are trying our best to rescue the child. The child is still alive, we can hear his voice," Silwa Circle Officer, Shambhu Mandal told ANI.</p>

<p>JCB machines were deployed on the spot where the incident took place in order to supply oxygen to the victim and help get him out of there.</p>

<p>According to the reports, Police Station In-charge Dinesh Kumar Singh said that many officials were informed and that the senior authorities in Parsottam reached the spot where the incident took place.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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A three-year-old kid, who fell into a 40-foot borewell on Sunday, was rescued by the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) team after five hours of extensive operation.

A three-year-old kid, who fell into a 40-foot borewell on Sunday, was rescued by the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) team after five hours of extensive operation. As per the reports, the boy is in stable condition and has been taken to the hospital. "The child is fine and has been rescued. He has been sent to the hospital. It took us around 5 hours to rescue him, Ranjeet Kumar," NDRF officer, Nalanda, Bihar told ANI. #WATCH | The child is fine and has been rescued. He has been sent to hospital. It took us around 5 hours to rescue him, says Ranjeet Kumar, NDRF officer, Nalanda, Bihar pic.twitter.com/nPyMGwuHYT — ANI (@ANI) July 23, 2023 × The incident took place in Kul village situated in Bihar's Nalanda. As per news agency ANI, the officials said that the child has been identified as Shivam Kumar. According to the details, a farmer had made the borewell but did not close it. Shivam, while playing with the kids, fell into the borewell. The rescue operation began when the other kids informed the three-year-old's parents. Nalin Maurya, Vice President of Nagar Panchayat Nalanda, was assisting the rescue operation. While speaking with news agency ANI, Maurya said, "This borewell was made by the farmer for boring. But boring didn't succeed here, so they started boring in another place and this borewell was not closed". Also read: South American weed gives Indian Elephants a run for their habitat "We received information that a child fell into a borewell. We are trying our best to rescue the child. The child is still alive, we can hear his voice," Silwa Circle Officer, Shambhu Mandal told ANI. JCB machines were deployed on the spot where the incident took place in order to supply oxygen to the victim and help get him out of there. According to the reports, Police Station In-charge Dinesh Kumar Singh said that many officials were informed and that the senior authorities in Parsottam reached the spot where the incident took place. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Watch| NDRF undertakes 5-hour operation to rescue 3-year-old kid who fell into 40-foot borewell in Bihar

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged in wide-ranging talks with visiting Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe on Friday (July 21) which largely focused on improvising economic and strategic cooperation and signing of&nbsp;agreements, which included setting up of UPI in the island nation as well as constructing a land bridge which will connect the two nations and provide land access to Trincomalee and Colombo ports.</p>

<p>Wickremesinghe, who is on a two-day visit to India, landed in New Delhi on Thursday (July 20). This is the first Indian trip of any senior Sri Lankan leader after the nation faced an unprecedented economic crisis last year.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> warmly welcomes President <a href="https://twitter.com/RW_UNP?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RW_UNP</a> of Sri Lanka at the Hyderabad House ahead of the bilateral talks.<br />
<br />
An opportunity to review and lend further momentum to the long-standing 🇮🇳-🇱🇰 ties, as the two countries celebrate 75 years of diplomatic relations this year. <a href="https://t.co/Ee6kikEpjZ">pic.twitter.com/Ee6kikEpjZ</a></p>
— Arindam Bagchi (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/1682267009806110721?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 21, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Financial assistance of USD 4 billion was extended by India to Sri Lanka, which included lines of credit for purchasing fuel and food last year when the country suffered an economic crisis.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-kept-quiet-while-manipur-was-burning-opposition-slams-govt-617849">‘Modi kept quiet while Manipur was burning’: Opposition slams govt</a></p>

<p>The Indian government had also provided guarantees to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to assist the country in securing a USD 2.9 billion bailout package.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Delegation level talks led by PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> and President <a href="https://twitter.com/RW_UNP?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RW_UNP</a> get underway.<br />
<br />
A wide-ranging agenda on the table covering areas of energy security, economic and financial linkages, defence &amp; security cooperation and people to people ties. <a href="https://t.co/x7irs8BPsw">pic.twitter.com/x7irs8BPsw</a></p>
— Arindam Bagchi (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/1682282468072914944?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 21, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>"An opportunity to review and lend further momentum to the long-standing India-Sri Lanka ties as the two countries celebrate 75 years of diplomatic relations this year," said External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Arindam Bagchi on Twitter, just before the two leaders began talks.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the tweets that followed, Bagchi said, "A wide-ranging agenda on the table covering areas of energy security, economic and financial linkages, defence &amp; security co-operation and people to people ties. Talks will focus on promoting mutually beneficial cooperation across sectors and strengthening connectivity in all its dimensions between our two countries."&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Bolstering our ties with a close maritime partner.<br />
<br />
PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> and President <a href="https://twitter.com/RW_UNP?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RW_UNP</a> hold bilateral discussions.<br />
<br />
Talks will focus on promoting mutually beneficial cooperation across sectors and strengthening connectivity in all its dimensions between our two countries. <a href="https://t.co/0RZpCXqyHR">pic.twitter.com/0RZpCXqyHR</a></p>
— Arindam Bagchi (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/1682273940763447296?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 21, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Network-to-network agreements for UPI in Sri Lanka</strong></h2>

<p>India and Sri Lanka exchanged several agreements in the presence of Indian PM Modi and Sri Lankan President Wickremesinghe in New Delhi. One of the agreements finalised was for&nbsp;network-to-network agreements for the acceptance of UPI in Sri Lanka.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking at the joint conference after the talks, PM Modi said, "We agree on the enhancement of air connectivity between India and Sri Lanka. To increase trade and travel by people, we have taken the decision to start passenger ferry services between Nagapattinam in Tamil Nadu and Kankesanturai in Sri Lanka."</p>

<p>"Sri Lanka also has an important place in both India's 'Neighbourhood First' policy and 'SAGAR' vision. Today we shared our views on bilateral, regional and international issues. We believe that the security interests and development of India and Sri Lanka are intertwined. The agreement signed to launch UPI in Sri Lanka, will increase Fintech connectivity," he further stated.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe to meet PM Modi, to seek 'innocent passage' for fishermen</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/sri-lankan-president-ranil-wickremesinghe-to-meet-pm-modi-to-seek-innocent-passage-for-fishermen-617869/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>PM Modi, while talking about the issue of fishermen being faced by the two countries, said,"Today, we also discussed the issues related to the livelihood of fishermen. We agree that we should go ahead on the matter with a humane approach. We also spoke about reconstruction and reconciliation in Sri Lanka. President Wickremesinghe told me about his inclusive approach. We hope that the Sri Lankan Govt will fulfil the aspirations of Tamils and take forward the process for equality, justice and peace. We hope it will fulfil its commitment to the implementation of the 13th Amendment and Provincial Council Elections."</p>

<p>Meanwhile,&nbsp;Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe said,&nbsp;"I have congratulated Prime Minister Modi on the great strides India continues to make under his leadership in economic infrastructure and technological progress in ensuring growth and prosperity for the people of India. We believe that India's growth will be beneficial to the neighbourhood and the Indian Ocean region."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I have also appraised Prime Minister Modi of the extraordinary challenges that Sri Lanka has experienced in economic, social and political terms in the past year and of the reform measures I have spearheaded on a number of fronts in overcoming these challenges. I have conveyed to Prime Minister Modi and to the government and the people of India a profound appreciation for the solidarity and support rendered to Sri Lanka in what was undoubtedly the most challenging period in our modern history," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Before the high-level talks between the two top leaders, Wickremesinghe was called on by India's NSA Ajit Doval and security cooperation between the two nations was discussed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Thursday held talks with Wickremesinghe and discussed various bilateral issues.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged in wide-ranging talks with visiting Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe on Friday (July 21) which largely focused on improvising economic and strategic cooperation and signing of agreements, which included setting up of UPI in the island nation as well as constructing a land bridge which will connect the two nations and provide land access to Trincomalee and Colombo ports.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged in wide-ranging talks with visiting Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe on Friday (July 21) which largely focused on improvising economic and strategic cooperation and signing of agreements, which included setting up of UPI in the island nation as well as constructing a land bridge which will connect the two nations and provide land access to Trincomalee and Colombo ports. Wickremesinghe, who is on a two-day visit to India, landed in New Delhi on Thursday (July 20). This is the first Indian trip of any senior Sri Lankan leader after the nation faced an unprecedented economic crisis last year. PM @narendramodi warmly welcomes President @RW_UNP of Sri Lanka at the Hyderabad House ahead of the bilateral talks. An opportunity to review and lend further momentum to the long-standing 🇮🇳-🇱🇰 ties, as the two countries celebrate 75 years of diplomatic relations this year. pic.twitter.com/Ee6kikEpjZ — Arindam Bagchi (@MEAIndia) July 21, 2023 × Financial assistance of USD 4 billion was extended by India to Sri Lanka, which included lines of credit for purchasing fuel and food last year when the country suffered an economic crisis. ALSO READ | ‘Modi kept quiet while Manipur was burning’: Opposition slams govt The Indian government had also provided guarantees to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to assist the country in securing a USD 2.9 billion bailout package. Delegation level talks led by PM @narendramodi and President @RW_UNP get underway. A wide-ranging agenda on the table covering areas of energy security, economic and financial linkages, defence & security cooperation and people to people ties. pic.twitter.com/x7irs8BPsw — Arindam Bagchi (@MEAIndia) July 21, 2023 × "An opportunity to review and lend further momentum to the long-standing India-Sri Lanka ties as the two countries celebrate 75 years of diplomatic relations this year," said External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Arindam Bagchi on Twitter, just before the two leaders began talks. In the tweets that followed, Bagchi said, "A wide-ranging agenda on the table covering areas of energy security, economic and financial linkages, defence & security co-operation and people to people ties. Talks will focus on promoting mutually beneficial cooperation across sectors and strengthening connectivity in all its dimensions between our two countries." Bolstering our ties with a close maritime partner. PM @narendramodi and President @RW_UNP hold bilateral discussions. Talks will focus on promoting mutually beneficial cooperation across sectors and strengthening connectivity in all its dimensions between our two countries. pic.twitter.com/0RZpCXqyHR — Arindam Bagchi (@MEAIndia) July 21, 2023 × Network-to-network agreements for UPI in Sri Lanka India and Sri Lanka exchanged several agreements in the presence of Indian PM Modi and Sri Lankan President Wickremesinghe in New Delhi. One of the agreements finalised was for network-to-network agreements for the acceptance of UPI in Sri Lanka. Speaking at the joint conference after the talks, PM Modi said, "We agree on the enhancement of air connectivity between India and Sri Lanka. To increase trade and travel by people, we have taken the decision to start passenger ferry services between Nagapattinam in Tamil Nadu and Kankesanturai in Sri Lanka." "Sri Lanka also has an important place in both India's 'Neighbourhood First' policy and 'SAGAR' vision. Today we shared our views on bilateral, regional and international issues. We believe that the security interests and development of India and Sri Lanka are intertwined. The agreement signed to launch UPI in Sri Lanka, will increase Fintech connectivity," he further stated. WATCH | Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe to meet PM Modi, to seek 'innocent passage' for fishermen PM Modi, while talking about the issue of fishermen being faced by the two countries, said,"Today, we also discussed the issues related to the livelihood of fishermen. We agree that we should go ahead on the matter with a humane approach. We also spoke about reconstruction and reconciliation in Sri Lanka. President Wickremesinghe told me about his inclusive approach. We hope that the Sri Lankan Govt will fulfil the aspirations of Tamils and take forward the process for equality, justice and peace. We hope it will fulfil its commitment to the implementation of the 13th Amendment and Provincial Council Elections." Meanwhile, Sri Lankan President Ranil Wickremesinghe said, "I have congratulated Prime Minister Modi on the great strides India continues to make under his leadership in economic infrastructure and technological progress in ensuring growth and prosperity for the people of India. We believe that India's growth will be beneficial to the neighbourhood and the Indian Ocean region." "I have also appraised Prime Minister Modi of the extraordinary challenges that Sri Lanka has experienced in economic, social and political terms in the past year and of the reform measures I have spearheaded on a number of fronts in overcoming these challenges. I have conveyed to Prime Minister Modi and to the government and the people of India a profound appreciation for the solidarity and support rendered to Sri Lanka in what was undoubtedly the most challenging period in our modern history," he added. Before the high-level talks between the two top leaders, Wickremesinghe was called on by India's NSA Ajit Doval and security cooperation between the two nations was discussed. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Thursday held talks with Wickremesinghe and discussed various bilateral issues. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

India's UPI to power Sri Lanka's fintech connectivity amid island nation's economic revival

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while laying emphasis on the country's climate<br />
commitments, said that India has demonstrated leadership in climate action and achieved its non-fossil installed electric capacity target nine years in advance.</p>

<p>On Saturday, in a video message to the G20 Energy Ministerial Meeting in Goa, the Prime Minister said that India plans to achieve 50 per cent non-fossil installed capacity by the year 2030.</p>

<p>“No talk about the future, sustainability or growth and development can be complete without energy. It impacts development at all levels, from individuals to nations,” the Prime Minister said at the meeting that brought together ministers from the countries in the G20 grouping.</p>

<p>He then underlined that India is among the top global leaders in solar as well as wind power and is making great efforts in green growth and energy transition.</p>

<p>“India is the most populated nation and the fastest-growing large economy in the world yet we are moving strongly on our climate commitments... We achieved our non-fossil, installed electric capacity target 9 years in advance. We have now set a higher target, we plan to achieve 50 per cent non-fossil installed capacity by 2030," PM Modi said.</p>

<p>He further highlighted that the entire world looks to the G20&nbsp;group to advance sustainable, just, affordable, inclusive, and clean energy transition and urged them to ensure that the Global South is not left behind.</p>

<p>“We must ensure low-cost finance for developing countries,” PM Modi said.</p>

<p>“We must find ways to bridge technology gaps, promote energy security, and work on diversifying supply chains. And, we must strengthen collaboration on the 'fuels for the future,'” he said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/india-trashes-chinese-ev-maker-byds-proposal-to-set-up-1bn-plant-618479">India trashes Chinese EV maker BYD’s proposal to set up $1 billion plant</a></p>

<h2><strong>Historic milestone of connecting every village to electricity achieved, says PM Modi</strong></h2>

<p>In his video message, he also said that more than 119 million families in the country have got LPG connections in the last nine years. “We have also achieved the historic milestone of connecting every village to electricity,” he said.</p>

<p>"In 2015, we began a small movement, by launching a scheme for the use of LED lights, this became the largest LED distribution programme in the world. Saving more than 45 billion units of energy per year," the prime minister said.</p>

<p>He further added that India's domestic electrical market is projected to reach 10 million annual sales by 2030.</p>

<p>"We have commenced the rollout of 20 per cent ethanol-blended petrol this year. Our aim is to cover the entire country by 2025," he said.</p>

<p>"The aim is to make India, a global hub for the production, use and export of green hydrogen and its derivatives," the PM said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><br />
&nbsp;</p>

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while laying emphasis on the country's climate commitments, said that India has demonstrated leadership in climate action and achieved its non-fossil installed electric capacity target nine years in advance.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while laying emphasis on the country's climate commitments, said that India has demonstrated leadership in climate action and achieved its non-fossil installed electric capacity target nine years in advance. On Saturday, in a video message to the G20 Energy Ministerial Meeting in Goa, the Prime Minister said that India plans to achieve 50 per cent non-fossil installed capacity by the year 2030. “No talk about the future, sustainability or growth and development can be complete without energy. It impacts development at all levels, from individuals to nations,” the Prime Minister said at the meeting that brought together ministers from the countries in the G20 grouping. He then underlined that India is among the top global leaders in solar as well as wind power and is making great efforts in green growth and energy transition. “India is the most populated nation and the fastest-growing large economy in the world yet we are moving strongly on our climate commitments... We achieved our non-fossil, installed electric capacity target 9 years in advance. We have now set a higher target, we plan to achieve 50 per cent non-fossil installed capacity by 2030," PM Modi said. He further highlighted that the entire world looks to the G20 group to advance sustainable, just, affordable, inclusive, and clean energy transition and urged them to ensure that the Global South is not left behind. “We must ensure low-cost finance for developing countries,” PM Modi said. “We must find ways to bridge technology gaps, promote energy security, and work on diversifying supply chains. And, we must strengthen collaboration on the 'fuels for the future,'” he said. Also read: India trashes Chinese EV maker BYD’s proposal to set up $1 billion plant Historic milestone of connecting every village to electricity achieved, says PM Modi In his video message, he also said that more than 119 million families in the country have got LPG connections in the last nine years. “We have also achieved the historic milestone of connecting every village to electricity,” he said. "In 2015, we began a small movement, by launching a scheme for the use of LED lights, this became the largest LED distribution programme in the world. Saving more than 45 billion units of energy per year," the prime minister said. He further added that India's domestic electrical market is projected to reach 10 million annual sales by 2030. "We have commenced the rollout of 20 per cent ethanol-blended petrol this year. Our aim is to cover the entire country by 2025," he said. "The aim is to make India, a global hub for the production, use and export of green hydrogen and its derivatives," the PM said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India plans to achieve 50% non-fossil installed capacity by 2030, says PM Narendra Modi at G20 Energy Meeting

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while hitting out at the previous UPA government on Saturday (July 22), said that the banking sector was destroyed by them with “scams”, however, in his regime, it has restored its good financial health, and now the country is known for its strong banking sector.<br />
<br />
Speaking at a Rozgar Mela after distributing more than 70,000 appointment letters to newly inducted recruits virtually, PM Modi said, "Today, India is one of those countries where the banking sector is considered to be the strongest but this was not the situation 9 years ago. Our banking sector has seen massive destruction during the previous government.”</p>

<h2><strong>'Phone banking scam broke the backbone of banking system'</strong></h2>

<p>He said that although the banking sector was “destroyed” by the previous regime, his government took corrective measures. He called the "phone banking" scam one of the biggest scams in the regime of the previou government which broke the banking system's back.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-kept-quiet-while-manipur-was-burning-opposition-slams-govt-617849">‘Modi kept quiet while Manipur was burning’: Opposition slams govt</a></p>

<p>“Today, we are able to make digital transactions but 9 years ago, phone banking was not for 140 crore people. People who were close to a specific family used to call Banks and provided them loans worth thousands of crores and these loans were never repaid. This 'phone banking scam' was one of the biggest scams during the previous government,” he said.<br />
<br />
"Because of this 'phone banking scam' the backbone of the banking sector was broken. In 2014, we started reviving our banking sector. We strengthened the management of government banks in the country. We combined several small banks and created large banks. The government made a 'Bankruptcy Code' law so that if any bank is shut, they have the minimum loss possible,” the prime minister stated.</p>

<h2><strong>India to emerge as world's top three economies in few years: PM</strong></h2>

<p>Emphasising the importance of the next 25 years for the country, PM Modi said, “During the 'Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav', when the country is working on the path of development, it is a great honour to get the opportunity to work as a government employee. The people of this country have taken the resolution to make India a developed country. The next 25 years are very important for India."</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Sri Lankan President's Wickremesinghe visits India holds talks with India PM Modi</strong></p>

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<p>"Today every expert is saying that in a few years, India will be in the world's top three economies. This means employment opportunities and citizen's per capita income will increase," he added.<br />
<br />
The government organised the Rozgar Mela in 44 locations across the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while hitting out at the previous UPA government on Saturday (July 22), said that the banking sector was destroyed by them with “scams”, however, in his regime, it has restored its good financial health, and now the country is known for its strong banking sector.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while hitting out at the previous UPA government on Saturday (July 22), said that the banking sector was destroyed by them with “scams”, however, in his regime, it has restored its good financial health, and now the country is known for its strong banking sector. Speaking at a Rozgar Mela after distributing more than 70,000 appointment letters to newly inducted recruits virtually, PM Modi said, "Today, India is one of those countries where the banking sector is considered to be the strongest but this was not the situation 9 years ago. Our banking sector has seen massive destruction during the previous government.” 'Phone banking scam broke the backbone of banking system' He said that although the banking sector was “destroyed” by the previous regime, his government took corrective measures. He called the "phone banking" scam one of the biggest scams in the regime of the previou government which broke the banking system's back. ALSO READ | ‘Modi kept quiet while Manipur was burning’: Opposition slams govt “Today, we are able to make digital transactions but 9 years ago, phone banking was not for 140 crore people. People who were close to a specific family used to call Banks and provided them loans worth thousands of crores and these loans were never repaid. This 'phone banking scam' was one of the biggest scams during the previous government,” he said. "Because of this 'phone banking scam' the backbone of the banking sector was broken. In 2014, we started reviving our banking sector. We strengthened the management of government banks in the country. We combined several small banks and created large banks. The government made a 'Bankruptcy Code' law so that if any bank is shut, they have the minimum loss possible,” the prime minister stated. India to emerge as world's top three economies in few years: PM Emphasising the importance of the next 25 years for the country, PM Modi said, “During the 'Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav', when the country is working on the path of development, it is a great honour to get the opportunity to work as a government employee. The people of this country have taken the resolution to make India a developed country. The next 25 years are very important for India." WATCH | Sri Lankan President's Wickremesinghe visits India holds talks with India PM Modi "Today every expert is saying that in a few years, India will be in the world's top three economies. This means employment opportunities and citizen's per capita income will increase," he added. The government organised the Rozgar Mela in 44 locations across the country. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

PM Modi hails India's banking sector as among strongest in world

<p>Two women from Kuki-Zo tribe were paraded naked and sexually assaulted by a mob of men in violence-hit Manipur state in India.</p>

<p>A video of the incident went viral on Wednesday (July 19), and according to media reports, it took place about two months ago when the violence first started.</p>

<p>The incident reportedly took place in Meitei-dominated valley of Thiubal district. A complaint was filed at a police station in Kangpokpi district and the case was later forwarded to the police station in Thoubal.</p>

<p>According to the Indian Express newspaper, an FIR was filed on May 18 against “unknown armed miscreants” under charges of abduction, gangrape and murder. However, they have not been arrested so far.</p>

<p>The video spread like wildfire on several social media platforms, sparking immense criticism.</p>

<p>In the clip, it can be seen that the two naked women, one in her 20s and the other in her 40s, are being forced to walk towards a field by a mob of men. Some of the men can be seen dragging the two women towards a field and forcibly groping them.</p>

<h2><strong>India's Manipur state on the boil, Internet has been snapped since first week of May | Details</strong></h2>

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<p>According to the complaint, the two women, members of the same family, were fleeing towards a forest after “group of 800-1,000 persons carrying sophisticated weapons” entered their village and began looting and burning it on May 4 afternoon, a day after violence had erupted in the state, reported Indian Express newspaper.</p>

<p>The women were later rescued by the police and when they were on their way to the police station, a mob of men ambushed them and took the women around two kilometres away from the police station.</p>

<p>The youngest woman’s father was killed on the spot, while the two women were forced to remove their clothes and stripped naked in front of the mob.</p>

<p>They also alleged that her brother was killed when trying to help her.</p>

<p>The women were later able to escape to the adjoining hill district of Tengnoupal and are said to be in relief camps.</p>

<p>Responding to the viral video, Manipur Superintendent of Police K Meghachandra Singh in a press release said, “As regard to the viral videos of two women paraded naked by unknown armed miscreants on May 4, a case of abduction, gangrape and murder, etc.&nbsp;was registered at Thoubal district against unknown armed miscreants and the investigation has been started. The state police is making all-out effort to arrest the culprits at the earliest.”</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Two women from Kuki-Zo tribe were paraded naked and sexually assaulted by a mob of men in violence-hit Manipur state in India. A video of the incident went viral on Wednesday (July 19), and according to media reports, it took place about two months ago when the violence first started.

Two women from Kuki-Zo tribe were paraded naked and sexually assaulted by a mob of men in violence-hit Manipur state in India. A video of the incident went viral on Wednesday (July 19), and according to media reports, it took place about two months ago when the violence first started. The incident reportedly took place in Meitei-dominated valley of Thiubal district. A complaint was filed at a police station in Kangpokpi district and the case was later forwarded to the police station in Thoubal. According to the Indian Express newspaper, an FIR was filed on May 18 against “unknown armed miscreants” under charges of abduction, gangrape and murder. However, they have not been arrested so far. The video spread like wildfire on several social media platforms, sparking immense criticism. In the clip, it can be seen that the two naked women, one in her 20s and the other in her 40s, are being forced to walk towards a field by a mob of men. Some of the men can be seen dragging the two women towards a field and forcibly groping them. India's Manipur state on the boil, Internet has been snapped since first week of May | Details According to the complaint, the two women, members of the same family, were fleeing towards a forest after “group of 800-1,000 persons carrying sophisticated weapons” entered their village and began looting and burning it on May 4 afternoon, a day after violence had erupted in the state, reported Indian Express newspaper. The women were later rescued by the police and when they were on their way to the police station, a mob of men ambushed them and took the women around two kilometres away from the police station. The youngest woman’s father was killed on the spot, while the two women were forced to remove their clothes and stripped naked in front of the mob. They also alleged that her brother was killed when trying to help her. The women were later able to escape to the adjoining hill district of Tengnoupal and are said to be in relief camps. Responding to the viral video, Manipur Superintendent of Police K Meghachandra Singh in a press release said, “As regard to the viral videos of two women paraded naked by unknown armed miscreants on May 4, a case of abduction, gangrape and murder, etc. was registered at Thoubal district against unknown armed miscreants and the investigation has been started. The state police is making all-out effort to arrest the culprits at the earliest.” (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

India: Two women paraded naked, sexually assaulted in violence-hit Manipur, video sparks outrage

<p>The Indian government, on Wednesday (July 19) said that starting Thursday, July 20, the RT-PCR based testing requirement for international travellers to India will be dropped amid the decline of COVID-19 cases in the country. The decision was taken given the “significant achievements” made in the vaccination coverage across the world, said the Union Health Ministry.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What did the health ministry say?</strong></h2>

<p>The earlier requirements for RT-PCR based testing of a random two per cent subset of international travellers to India have been dropped, said the health ministry. The new guidelines will take effect starting at 12:00 am (local time) on 20 July, 2023.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, the earlier advice for precautionary measures should continue to be followed in the context of COVID-19 by airlines as well as international travellers, said the Indian government.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Revised guidelines&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The Union Ministry of Health also released the revised guidelines for international travellers which said that it is advisable for international passengers to be fully vaccinated as per the approved primary schedule of vaccination against COVID-19 in their country.</p>

<p>The guidelines also include measures and protocols for travellers while on flight and deboarding. The airlines are required to make in-flight announcements regarding&nbsp;COVID-19 and the precautionary measures that passengers should follow like preferable use of masks and following physical distancing, while travelling.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The health ministry also said that if any passenger has symptoms of COVID-19 during travel they should be isolated and asked to follow standard protocol – wearing a mask, isolated and segregated from other passengers. They should then be shifted to an isolation facility, subsequently, for follow-up treatment.</p>

<p>After deboarding, the passengers should ensure physical distance, said the Indian health ministry. Thermal scanning should be conducted by health officials present at the point of entry and passengers found to be symptomatic during screening should be immediately isolated, the guidelines added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Subsequently, they should be taken to a designated medical facility as per health protocol. “All travellers should self-monitor their health post arrival also shall report to their nearest health facility or call National helpline number (1075)/State Helpline Number in case they have any symptoms suggestive of COVID-19,” said the Union health ministry.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>India records over 1,400 active cases</h2>

<p>The health ministry, on Wednesday, said India had logged 49 new COVID-19 cases taking the total tally of active cases to 1,464 from 1,453, reported a day prior. Additionally, the recovery rate has been recorded at 98.81 per cent.<br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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The Indian government, on Wednesday (July 19) said that starting Thursday, July 20, the RT-PCR based testing requirement for international travellers to India will be dropped amid the decline of COVID-19 cases in the country.

The Indian government, on Wednesday (July 19) said that starting Thursday, July 20, the RT-PCR based testing requirement for international travellers to India will be dropped amid the decline of COVID-19 cases in the country. The decision was taken given the “significant achievements” made in the vaccination coverage across the world, said the Union Health Ministry. What did the health ministry say? The earlier requirements for RT-PCR based testing of a random two per cent subset of international travellers to India have been dropped, said the health ministry. The new guidelines will take effect starting at 12:00 am (local time) on 20 July, 2023. However, the earlier advice for precautionary measures should continue to be followed in the context of COVID-19 by airlines as well as international travellers, said the Indian government. Revised guidelines The Union Ministry of Health also released the revised guidelines for international travellers which said that it is advisable for international passengers to be fully vaccinated as per the approved primary schedule of vaccination against COVID-19 in their country. The guidelines also include measures and protocols for travellers while on flight and deboarding. The airlines are required to make in-flight announcements regarding COVID-19 and the precautionary measures that passengers should follow like preferable use of masks and following physical distancing, while travelling. The health ministry also said that if any passenger has symptoms of COVID-19 during travel they should be isolated and asked to follow standard protocol – wearing a mask, isolated and segregated from other passengers. They should then be shifted to an isolation facility, subsequently, for follow-up treatment. After deboarding, the passengers should ensure physical distance, said the Indian health ministry. Thermal scanning should be conducted by health officials present at the point of entry and passengers found to be symptomatic during screening should be immediately isolated, the guidelines added. Subsequently, they should be taken to a designated medical facility as per health protocol. “All travellers should self-monitor their health post arrival also shall report to their nearest health facility or call National helpline number (1075)/State Helpline Number in case they have any symptoms suggestive of COVID-19,” said the Union health ministry. India records over 1,400 active cases The health ministry, on Wednesday, said India had logged 49 new COVID-19 cases taking the total tally of active cases to 1,464 from 1,453, reported a day prior. Additionally, the recovery rate has been recorded at 98.81 per cent. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Indian government eases COVID-19 testing rules for international travellers

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<p>With less than a year to go for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, the battle lines have been drawn between the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and the opposition parties. On Tuesday (July 18), during the mega gathering of 26 parties in the southern Indian city of Bengaluru, the opposition leaders decided to name their new coalition as Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance, a clever play on the acronym that reads INDIA.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Earlier, we were UPA and now all the 26 parties have given a name to the opposition and that is – Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA). Everybody has agreed upon this, and the resolution for the name was passed unanimously," said Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, adding that "well begun" was "half done".&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Alliance borne out of political conveniences</strong></h2>

<p>The alliance, borne out of political conveniences as well as desperation is possibly the last-ditch attempt by the opposition to cobble together a grouping that can halt the charging juggernaut of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. In the last two general elections, the NDA, led by PM Modi has decimated the opposition, rendering the Indian parliament devoid of a challenger that can put the government in dock or disrupt proceedings.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The alliance experiment is delicate — one that will require extreme precision from all opposition parties to pull through. The joint opposition, in its draft agenda, has talked about setting up a committee for drafting the common minimum programme and&nbsp; communication&nbsp; points - the foundation to build upon. Additionally, the alliance is set to discuss seat sharing on a state-to-state basis during its next gathering, set to take place in Mumbai.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Can opposition get over the seat-sharing hurdle?</strong></h2>

<p>The seat-sharing formula is the decisive point where most experts feel the alliance will be tested to the hilt. Would West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee be on board with Congress and Left parties contesting elections in the state? Would Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal allow Congress to compete in the capital once again and divide the votes? These are a few of the burning questions that most political pundits and voters are actively seeking answers to.&nbsp;</p>

<p>If a consensus is not found on the issue, the alliance might be dead-on-arrival. However, in the fortunate circumstance that middle ground is found, another challenge quickly stares down the barrel - who will be the prime ministerial candidate?</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nda-vs-india-bjp-opposition-parties-names-their-alliance-india-617061" target="_blank"><strong>Also read | NDA vs INDIA: Opposition renames alliance from UPA to INDIA ahead of 2024 Lok Sabha polls</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>Who will spar against PM Modi?</strong></h2>

<p>If the opposition believes that it will be able to win against PM Narendra Modi without a credible and powerful face squaring up against him, the battle could be over before it begins. No matter how the narrative is turned, India and Bharat, still vote for a face and Modi has been a darling of the middle class of India.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The truth of the matter is that PM Modi and his gargantuan stature dwarfs most political leaders in India. There are a handful of leaders in the opposition that can go toe-to-toe against him. Kharge has pointed out Congress is not interested in “either power or the prime ministerial post" but if the push comes to shove, will Rahul Gandhi be projected as the alternative? And if Congress has its way, how will the other partners react to it?&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/we-have-decided-to-fight-elections-together-says-nitish-kumar-after-opposition-meet-608017"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;We have decided to fight elections together', says Nitish Kumar after opposition meet</strong></a></p>

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<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/here-to-save-democracy-opposition-parties-convene-in-bengaluru-for-mega-meeting-616402#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></p>

<h2><strong>Foreshadowing the fissures?</strong></h2>

<p>Despite Kharge claiming that the opposition front was off to a solid start after rechristening itself, statements that might foreshadow the end of the alliance have started doing the rounds of the internet.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While Congress claimed it was Rahul Gandhi who coined the&nbsp;name of the&nbsp;new alliance, TMC leaders said it was their supremo Mamata Banerjee who engineered the name. Similarly, AAP and other coalition partners went ahead and attempted to quietly gobble up the credit pie.&nbsp;</p>

<p>If the hunger for credit is so evident at the first achievement, it looks highly improbable how the coalition will function when it will be up against the well-oiled election machinery of BJP-led NDA led by the astute Amit Shah.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/38-vs-26-ruling-nda-and-opposition-parties-hold-meetings-to-assert-dominance-616974" target="_blank"><strong>Also read: 38 vs 26: India's ruling NDA and opposition parties hold meetings to assert dominance</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>The quest for alternative&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>It is not the first instance when the opposition has posited banding together to take on the ruling power. Ever since the emergence of coalition governments in the late 90s and early 2000s, the opposition parties, bar Congress and BJP have tried to come up with the idea of a strong 'Third Front'. The idea was to band all the regional parties in one big basket and go hammer and tongs against the established players.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The idea looked decent, some might say, brilliant on paper but never materialised in reality. The 'Third Front' propped up before every election but the final outline always remained blurry, disjointed and in the end, a failed exercise.&nbsp;</p>

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With less than a year to go for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, the battle lines have been drawn between the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and the opposition parties.

With less than a year to go for the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, the battle lines have been drawn between the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and the opposition parties. On Tuesday (July 18), during the mega gathering of 26 parties in the southern Indian city of Bengaluru, the opposition leaders decided to name their new coalition as Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance, a clever play on the acronym that reads INDIA. "Earlier, we were UPA and now all the 26 parties have given a name to the opposition and that is – Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA). Everybody has agreed upon this, and the resolution for the name was passed unanimously," said Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, adding that "well begun" was "half done". Alliance borne out of political conveniences The alliance, borne out of political conveniences as well as desperation is possibly the last-ditch attempt by the opposition to cobble together a grouping that can halt the charging juggernaut of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. In the last two general elections, the NDA, led by PM Modi has decimated the opposition, rendering the Indian parliament devoid of a challenger that can put the government in dock or disrupt proceedings. The alliance experiment is delicate — one that will require extreme precision from all opposition parties to pull through. The joint opposition, in its draft agenda, has talked about setting up a committee for drafting the common minimum programme and communication points - the foundation to build upon. Additionally, the alliance is set to discuss seat sharing on a state-to-state basis during its next gathering, set to take place in Mumbai. Can opposition get over the seat-sharing hurdle? The seat-sharing formula is the decisive point where most experts feel the alliance will be tested to the hilt. Would West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee be on board with Congress and Left parties contesting elections in the state? Would Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal allow Congress to compete in the capital once again and divide the votes? These are a few of the burning questions that most political pundits and voters are actively seeking answers to. If a consensus is not found on the issue, the alliance might be dead-on-arrival. However, in the fortunate circumstance that middle ground is found, another challenge quickly stares down the barrel - who will be the prime ministerial candidate? Also read | NDA vs INDIA: Opposition renames alliance from UPA to INDIA ahead of 2024 Lok Sabha polls Who will spar against PM Modi? If the opposition believes that it will be able to win against PM Narendra Modi without a credible and powerful face squaring up against him, the battle could be over before it begins. No matter how the narrative is turned, India and Bharat, still vote for a face and Modi has been a darling of the middle class of India. The truth of the matter is that PM Modi and his gargantuan stature dwarfs most political leaders in India. There are a handful of leaders in the opposition that can go toe-to-toe against him. Kharge has pointed out Congress is not interested in “either power or the prime ministerial post" but if the push comes to shove, will Rahul Gandhi be projected as the alternative? And if Congress has its way, how will the other partners react to it? Watch | We have decided to fight elections together', says Nitish Kumar after opposition meet × Foreshadowing the fissures? Despite Kharge claiming that the opposition front was off to a solid start after rechristening itself, statements that might foreshadow the end of the alliance have started doing the rounds of the internet. While Congress claimed it was Rahul Gandhi who coined the name of the new alliance, TMC leaders said it was their supremo Mamata Banerjee who engineered the name. Similarly, AAP and other coalition partners went ahead and attempted to quietly gobble up the credit pie. If the hunger for credit is so evident at the first achievement, it looks highly improbable how the coalition will function when it will be up against the well-oiled election machinery of BJP-led NDA led by the astute Amit Shah. Also read: 38 vs 26: India's ruling NDA and opposition parties hold meetings to assert dominance The quest for alternative It is not the first instance when the opposition has posited banding together to take on the ruling power. Ever since the emergence of coalition governments in the late 90s and early 2000s, the opposition parties, bar Congress and BJP have tried to come up with the idea of a strong 'Third Front'. The idea was to band all the regional parties in one big basket and go hammer and tongs against the established players. The idea looked decent, some might say, brilliant on paper but never materialised in reality. The 'Third Front' propped up before every election but the final outline always remained blurry, disjointed and in the end, a failed exercise. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Explained | Will the new opposition alliance INDIA be able to topple the Modi juggernaut?

<p>India on Monday (July 17) achieved a “historic milestone” by destroying <a name="_Hlk140532454">144,000 </a>kilogrammes of seized narcotics worth 2.78 billion rupees ($289 million approx.)</p>

<p>The operation was carried out across the country by the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) in coordination with Anti Narcotics Task Force (ANTF) in the virtual presence of Union Home Minister Amit Shah.</p>

<p>Calling it a “historic milestone”, Shah said that India has now attained an “astounding record” of destroying one million kg&nbsp;of seized drugs worth Rs 120 billion in just one year.</p>

<p>"The remarkable feat achieved at the Regional Conference on Drug Trafficking and National Security exemplifies the MHA's staunch and relentless pursuit of PM Narendra Modi Ji's vision of a drug-free India," he said.</p>

<h2><strong>PM Modi lauds initiative</strong></h2>

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi later replied to Shah’s tweet, commending the historic achievement.</p>

<p>"Great! Adds strength to our efforts to make India free from the drug menace," he said.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Great! Adds strength to our efforts to make India free from the drugs menace. <a href="https://t.co/JT77u8aOqT">https://t.co/JT77u8aOqT</a></p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1680959947167895552?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 17, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Earlier in the day, Shah, while chairing the Regional Conference on 'Drug Trafficking and National Security' in the capital New Delhi, said that drug trafficking and its usage not only ruin future generations but also affect India’s national security.</p>

<p>He conveyed PM Modi’s message of setting a target to make India drug-free by the time the centenary of the country's independence is celebrated.</p>

<p>Over 1,44,000 kg of drugs were destroyed worth Rs 2,378 crore across India under Home Minister Amit Shah's supervision.</p>

<p>The minister noted this is a record for the highest quantity of drugs destroyed in a single day.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Bulks of drugs destroyed in Madhya Pradesh</strong></h2>

<p>Among the drugs that were destroyed include 6,590 kg seized by the Narcotics Control Bureau's (NCB) Hyderabad unit, 822 kg seized by the Indore unit and 356 kg by the Jammu unit, the officials said.</p>

<p>The bulk of the seized narcotics were destroyed in Madhya Pradesh with 1,03,884 kg followed by 1,486 kg in Assam, 229 kg in Chandigarh, 25 kg in Goa, 4,277 kg in Gujarat, 2,458 kg in Haryana, 4,069 kg in Jammu and Kashmir, 159 kg in Maharashtra, 1,803 kg in Tripura and 4,049 kg in Uttar Pradesh, PTI news agency reported.</p>

<p>From June 1, 2022, to July 15, 2023, regional units of the NCB and anti-narcotics task forces of the states collectively destroyed around 8,76,554 kg of seized drugs worth around Rs 9.5 billion ($11.5 million approx.) which is more than 11 times the target.</p>

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India on Monday (July 17) achieved a “historic milestone” by destroying 144,000 kilogrammes of seized narcotics worth 2.78 billion rupees ($289 million approx.) The operation was carried out across the country by the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) in coordination with Anti Narcotics Task Force (ANTF) in the virtual presence of Union Home Minister Amit Shah.

India on Monday (July 17) achieved a “historic milestone” by destroying 144,000 kilogrammes of seized narcotics worth 2.78 billion rupees ($289 million approx.) The operation was carried out across the country by the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) in coordination with Anti Narcotics Task Force (ANTF) in the virtual presence of Union Home Minister Amit Shah. Calling it a “historic milestone”, Shah said that India has now attained an “astounding record” of destroying one million kg of seized drugs worth Rs 120 billion in just one year. "The remarkable feat achieved at the Regional Conference on Drug Trafficking and National Security exemplifies the MHA's staunch and relentless pursuit of PM Narendra Modi Ji's vision of a drug-free India," he said. PM Modi lauds initiative Prime Minister Narendra Modi later replied to Shah’s tweet, commending the historic achievement. "Great! Adds strength to our efforts to make India free from the drug menace," he said. Great! Adds strength to our efforts to make India free from the drugs menace. https://t.co/JT77u8aOqT — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 17, 2023 × Earlier in the day, Shah, while chairing the Regional Conference on 'Drug Trafficking and National Security' in the capital New Delhi, said that drug trafficking and its usage not only ruin future generations but also affect India’s national security. He conveyed PM Modi’s message of setting a target to make India drug-free by the time the centenary of the country's independence is celebrated. Over 1,44,000 kg of drugs were destroyed worth Rs 2,378 crore across India under Home Minister Amit Shah's supervision. The minister noted this is a record for the highest quantity of drugs destroyed in a single day. Bulks of drugs destroyed in Madhya Pradesh Among the drugs that were destroyed include 6,590 kg seized by the Narcotics Control Bureau's (NCB) Hyderabad unit, 822 kg seized by the Indore unit and 356 kg by the Jammu unit, the officials said. The bulk of the seized narcotics were destroyed in Madhya Pradesh with 1,03,884 kg followed by 1,486 kg in Assam, 229 kg in Chandigarh, 25 kg in Goa, 4,277 kg in Gujarat, 2,458 kg in Haryana, 4,069 kg in Jammu and Kashmir, 159 kg in Maharashtra, 1,803 kg in Tripura and 4,049 kg in Uttar Pradesh, PTI news agency reported. From June 1, 2022, to July 15, 2023, regional units of the NCB and anti-narcotics task forces of the states collectively destroyed around 8,76,554 kg of seized drugs worth around Rs 9.5 billion ($11.5 million approx.) which is more than 11 times the target. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

India achieves ‘historic milestone’, destroys 144,000kg seized narcotics worth $289mn

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